CurrentReport Blog Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has called on the newly sworn-in local government chairmen and their deputies to maintain close cooperation with the state government, despite their financial autonomy. Eno made this statement during the swearing-in ceremony held on Monday at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo, urging the council executives not to misconstrue their autonomy as a license to operate independently of the state’s governance framework.
The recent council elections, held on Saturday, October 5, 2024, saw the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winning 30 out of 31 local governments, while the All Progressives Congress (APC) secured a victory in Essien Udim Local Government Area. This was declared by the State Independent Electoral Commission.
During his address, Eno emphasized the importance of collaboration between local governments and the state, noting that no arm of government can function effectively in isolation. He assured the chairmen of their financial independence while underscoring shared responsibilities, particularly in areas like education and governance.
“Each of you is now autonomous in your financial dealings, which means you will receive your funds directly. But remember, we have shared responsibilities, including paying teachers’ allowances and gratuities. We must continue working collaboratively to deliver good governance to our people,” Eno stated.
He further urged the chairmen to align their policies with the state’s governance blueprint, the ARISE Agenda, which focuses on advancing the development of Akwa Ibom. Eno reminded them that autonomy does not equate to running separate entities from the state government, but rather enhances their capacity to contribute to the state’s collective goals.
Addressing the sole opposition chairman from Essien Udim, Eno emphasized the need for bipartisan cooperation: “Your election and swearing-in today confirm that the process was fair. You are now expected to work with the state government to deliver the dividends of democracy to our people. Governance transcends party lines—let them see you as the Chairman of Essien Udim, not the Chairman of APC.”
Responding on behalf of the newly sworn-in chairmen, Akaninyene Tommy, the returning Chairman of Eket Local Government, expressed gratitude to the people for their support. He attributed the PDP’s success in the polls to the impressive performance of Governor Umo Eno’s administration and promised to replicate the governor’s achievements at the local government level.
The new local government executives are expected to work closely with the state government to ensure the continued development of Akwa Ibom.
