A quiet man can still walk with a blade in his hand. Once, Governor Umo Eno projected soft edges, fittingly wearing the image of the gentle pastor who preached harmony across Akwa Ibom. That image shifted when two aides were dismissed after a political convention in Ibadan. The order had been clear: follow him to the APC or step aside.
Joseph Ikpak and Felix Ekuri were removed from their posts. Their offence was attendance at the PDP convention. Moments later, photographs of the two circulated online. The government framed the move as restructuring; insiders whispered disobedience and punishment.
Eno confirmed the dismissals himself. From his language, it is clear that he hinges everything on consequence; how public service had rules, and loyalty formed the spine.
According to the governor, no one could serve a government and wander into rival territory. It sounded administrative, but anyone with sensitive ears would recognise the firmness that bordered on warning.
The governor had already demanded allegiance from all aides before the incident. Those unwilling to cross into the APC were advised to resign. That ultimatum hinted at a doctrine: loyalty first, ideology second. The tone had been quiet, but its force came later.
Critics remembered older stories: a family quarrel, disputed business practices, and promises of unity that now looked brittle. Some argued that Eno’s “Akwa Ibom United” slogan dissolved the moment dissent surfaced. The smile in his posters felt different when viewed beside his decisions.
Supporters took another view. They saw discipline and clarity. They praised him for clean lines and firm rules. One aide even wrote online that no one could serve two masters. In that reading, governance needed backbone, not gentle speeches.
The question remains: was Eno misunderstood all along, or did power repaint his portrait once it reached his desk?
