A former Commissioner for Science and Technology, and a respected political figure from Uyo, Mr. Samuel Effanga remains an active voice in the state’s political affairs. In this interview with our Group News Editor, DOMINIC AKPAN, he speaks on the current political climate in Akwa Ibom, the growing acceptance of the consensus arrangement in the just concluded primaries of the All Progressives Congress, APC, the relationship between Gov. Umo Eno and Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio, and his assessment of the Governor’s performance after three years in office. He also shares his thoughts on peace, security, governance and the future of the State. Excepts…
How has life been since you left office as Commissioner for Science and Technology?
It has been a fulfilling period. Although it has been about 15 years since I left office, I have remained actively involved in efforts aimed at advancing the development of Akwa Ibom State. Public service does not end with holding office; one can still contribute ideas, support policies and participate in the political process from outside government.
Why have you not contested for any elective office since you left office?
Politics is not always about contesting elections. Over the years, I have chosen to play a supportive role. I support candidates and also offer my advice and suggestions to government. While I have not sought elective office, I have remained committed to the political and developmental aspirations of the State.
How would you describe the current political situation in Akwa Ibom State?
As the state prepares for another political transition, there is naturally a high level of political activity and anticipation. Many incumbent political office holders are seeking re-election, while others are aspiring to leadership positions. However, despite these ambitions, the political environment has remained relatively stable.
What stands out is the level of coordination within the ruling APC, which has helped prevent the political atmosphere from becoming overheated. The party’s leadership under the watch of Gov. Umo Eno is focused on maintaining peace and order throughout the process and he achieved that with the peaceful conduct of the APC primaries. Everything was controlled.
What do you mean by everything was controlled?
I am referring to the deliberate efforts by the APC leadership to manage political competition in a way that minimizes conflict and violence. Unlike previous election seasons, there has been a conscious effort to promote dialogue, consultation and consensus, thereby reducing tensions that often accompany political transitions.
How do you view the consensus arrangement that produced many APC candidates unopposed?
Consensus is one of the strategies being employed to promote stability and reduce the costs and conflicts associated with competitive primaries. While such arrangements may not satisfy everyone, extensive consultations appear to have been carried out to encourage stakeholders to make sacrifices in the interest of peace and unity.
So far, the approach is working. The State has largely avoided the political crises and violent struggles that often characterize transition periods. The leadership of Governor Umo Eno and the Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio has initiated a high level of consultation, diplomacy and political management.
As a politician from Uyo, how do you view the growing acceptance of second terms for elected officials by the people of Uyo?
It reflects a significant shift in political thinking. In the past, attempts by public office holders in Uyo to seek second terms often generated intense opposition and conflict. Today, there is greater appreciation for the value of experience and continuity.
For instance, Uyo Local Government benefited from having a returning chairman, Mr. Uwemedimo Udo, who eventually became Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria, ALGON. Similarly, the Uyo State Constituency is on course to produce its first two-term member of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mr. Uwemedimo Asuquo.
I have always advocated for legislative ranking because leadership positions in the legislature are usually reserved for experienced members. Uyo has historically been disadvantaged by its resistance to second terms. If we are to produce leaders such as a Speaker or Deputy Speaker in the future, we must allow competent representatives the opportunity to gain legislative experience through re-election.
How would you assess Governor Umo Eno’s three years in office?
Governor Umo Eno came into office with a message of peace, and three years on, I believe he has largely remained faithful to that vision. Looking back at the “Maintain Peace Movement” slogan that featured prominently during the campaign, one can say that his administration has demonstrated a deliberate commitment to preserving peace and fostering unity across Akwa Ibom State.
Since assuming office, he has worked to unite the people and create an atmosphere of inclusiveness. His leadership style has sought to accommodate all ethnic groups and political interests in the state, ensuring that no segment feels excluded from governance. This commitment to peace and security is evident in the establishment of the Ministry of Internal Security and the provision of the necessary support infrastructure to strengthen the state’s security architecture.
His focus on security is highly commendable. While no society can completely eliminate crime, Akwa Ibom has witnessed a significant reduction in criminal activities and remains one of the most peaceful states in the country. The administration’s zero-tolerance approach to crime has helped create an environment where residents can live, work and conduct their businesses without fear.
The prevailing peace and security have also had positive implications for tourism and investment. More visitors are coming into the state, while deliberate efforts have been made to position Akwa Ibom as a tourism destination. The continued growth of Ibom Air, improvements at the airport terminal and investments in related infrastructure have enhanced connectivity and boosted visitor traffic. The hospitality industry and recreational facilities have equally benefited from the perception of Akwa Ibom as a safe and welcoming destination.
Another area where the Governor deserves commendation is workers’ welfare. His administration has committed substantial resources to the payment of pensions and gratuities, addressing long-standing concerns of retirees who had waited years to receive their entitlements. Many pensioners who had previously been owed have now been paid, putting significant resources directly into the hands of citizens and improving their quality of life.
The administration’s social welfare programmes have also made a meaningful impact. Through support schemes for senior citizens aged 60 and above, beneficiaries receive monthly stipends that help improve their welfare. Government interventions in food support and other palliative programmes have also provided relief for vulnerable groups during difficult economic periods.
The Compassionate Homes initiative is another notable example of the administration’s commitment to social welfare. By providing houses for widows, vulnerable families and other disadvantaged persons, the government has demonstrated concern for those at the lower end of the economic ladder. Reports that some civil servants have also benefited from housing support further reflect this commitment.
What stands out about Governor Umo Eno is his public-oriented approach to governance. He has introduced transparent systems, including online registration portals for certain intervention programmes, to ensure that beneficiaries are selected through a fair process rather than personal connections. This approach promotes equity and broadens access to government support.
While poverty remains a major challenge, it is unrealistic to expect decades of economic hardship to be resolved within a single term. However, the foundations being laid through these welfare initiatives can create a multiplier effect over time, especially if future administrations sustain and build upon them.
I am also impressed by his commitment to preserving and completing state-owned projects initiated by previous administrations. Rather than abandoning inherited projects, he has continued work on key developments such as the Tropicana Hotel and the International Convention Centre. This demonstrates a leadership philosophy that prioritises the interests of the state above personal or political considerations.
The Governor has equally invested in healthcare and education through the renovation and construction of schools and health facilities. His development strategy appears deliberately inclusive, with projects spread across the local government areas to ensure that every part of the state benefits from government presence and infrastructure.
As the administration enters the final year of its first term, many of these projects are gradually taking shape. However, beyond infrastructure and social programmes, I believe the Governor’s greatest achievement remains the peace and security that Akwa Ibom currently enjoys.
I recall a conversation with a friend who remarked that even if critics claim the Governor has done nothing else, the fact that citizens can move freely and return home safely every day is itself a significant achievement. That statement captures the value of peace and security in any society.
Today, Akwa Ibom is widely regarded as one of the safest states in the country. People go about their daily activities with confidence, and that secure environment is one of the defining legacies of Governor Umo Eno’s administration so far.
As a former Commissioner for Science and Technology, are you not concerned that the Science Park project has remained uncompleted?
The Science Park was conceived as a visionary project, but after years of neglect, much of the infrastructure has deteriorated. In my view, any serious attempt to revive it would require a comprehensive redesign and fresh environmental assessments.
While it remains a worthwhile concept, the government may currently have other priorities. Reviving the project would almost amount to starting afresh.
What do you think explains the cordial relationship between the Senate President and the Governor?
I believe wisdom is the key factor. Governor Umo Eno recognised early that political rivalry between state and federal actors would not benefit Akwa Ibom. He, therefore, adopted a conciliatory approach aimed at fostering unity and collaboration.
Similarly, Senate President, Chief Godswill Akpabio placed the peace and development of the State above partisan considerations. Their willingness to work together has helped create political stability and strengthen governance in the State.
The Governor’s decision to align Akwa Ibom with the federal government was initially controversial, but it has contributed significantly to political stability and protected the state from the turmoil that later engulfed the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
What is your message to the political class?
I urge political leaders and stakeholders to continue supporting Gov. Umo Eno and to place the interests of the state above personal ambitions.
The Governor has demonstrated a commitment to peace, inclusion and people-oriented governance. Those who may feel disappointed by political decisions should remain patient and continue to contribute to the development of Akwa Ibom.
I believe that if the current trajectory is sustained, the State will continue to experience progress, stability and greater prosperity in the years ahead.
Discussion about this post