President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has again praised Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, over the prevailing peace and inclusive leadership style in the state.
Akpabio made the remarks during an Easter visit to the governor on Sunday at his country home in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, where he commended Eno’s humility and commitment to fostering unity and development across the state.
The senate president noted that the governor’s leadership has been marked by a strong sense of inclusiveness and purpose, which, according to him, has strengthened cohesion among the people.
He expressed satisfaction with the prevailing atmosphere of unity in Akwa Ibom, while stressing the need for sustained collaboration between leaders at both state and federal levels.
“This visit may appear a surprise, but it is something I should do more often, coming to identify with my Governor, a leader who loves his people, does not discriminate, and has demonstrated clear and purposeful leadership which has ushered in peace in the state”, Akpabio said.
He applauded the governor’s humility in governance and expressed optimism about the state’s future under his administration, adding that divisive tendencies such as hatred, bigotry, and disunity would continue to recede.
Akpabio informed the governor that he had earlier worshipped and represented him at the convention of the Apostolic Church at Ikot Ekpene and Ikono LGAs.
“I sent your message of felicitation, and they were quite happy and prayed for you that God will help you to govern the State in peace and in good health; grant you your heart’s desires and particularly, your second term successful, and we all echoed Amen,” he said.
Reflecting on the significance of Easter, Akpabio said the resurrection of Jesus Christ symbolises victory over adversity, expressing hope that Nigeria would overcome its current challenges, including insecurity and poverty.
Earlier, Eno expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as thoughtful and symbolic, particularly during the Easter season.
He noted that while he had visited the Senate President on several occasions, he did not anticipate such a gesture in return, describing it as a demonstration of genuine goodwill and leadership.
“This reflects the true spirit of Easter: love, sacrifice, and resurrection. It is an uncommon gesture, and we don’t take it for granted. In some States, leaders in Abuja and those in the States do not see each other and hardly interact, but here in Akwa Ibom, we can all sit together and continue to foster unity and mutual respect,” the governor said.
Eno, who described Akpabio as a political grandfather, thanked him for his continued support and fatherly guidance, and assured him of sustained cooperation and prayers.
The Senate President was accompanied by the Member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, Dr Patrick Umo, and the Chairman of Essien Udim Local Government Area, Ntiedo Usoro, Executive Director, Projects of the NDDC, Victor Antai, among others.
