The Akwa Ibom State Government has dismissed allegations made by former FCT Minister, Senator John James Akpanudoedehe, describing them as false, reckless and aimed at inciting public tension.
In a press release issued on Saturday, September 13, 2026, the government said its attention was drawn to a recent social media video in which Akpanudoedehe accused Governor Umo Eno and former Governor Udom Emmanuel of wrongdoing.
The most serious claim, according to the statement, was that Governor Eno was responsible for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, seizing the former governor’s residence in Lagos.
The Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah, said the allegation was “completely unsubstantiated” and that ordinarily the government would not have responded to “such a tissue of lies.”
“For the avoidance of doubt, Governor Umo Eno has never reported anyone to the EFCC,” Umanah stated. “I make bold to say that I have never reported anyone, talk more of my predecessor in office, to the EFCC. I stand to be challenged or contradicted.”
The government said Governor Eno has consistently shown respect for his predecessors and has made genuine efforts towards reconciliation since assuming office.
Umanah noted that the governor facilitated engagements at the highest levels of government in the interest of peace and political harmony, and has retained many appointees from the previous administration.
He also pointed to the continuation and completion of projects initiated by past governors as evidence that the administration is not driven by vendetta.
“Akwa Ibom has moved far beyond the politics of falsehood, blackmail and manufactured controversies,” the statement read. “Our people deserve politics that promotes peace, development and responsible leadership.”
The government then referenced the 2011 gubernatorial election build-up, alleging that it was marred by violence, destruction and arson, including the burning of vehicles purchased for the mass taxi service.
According to the release, Akpanudoedehe was “at the centre of those events” and was subsequently arrested and prosecuted over allegations arising from the crisis.
“That history cannot simply be erased,” Umanah said. “Those who seek political office must also be prepared to answer questions about their own political conduct and the consequences of conflicts in which they played a leading role.”
The commissioner questioned whether the state should be subjected again to “the politics of bitterness, destruction and instability orchestrated by one man,” warning that political ambition must not come at the expense of peace.
He added that while Akpanudoedehe was making “unfounded allegations,” the Eno administration remains focused on delivering the ARISE Agenda across roads, bridges, schools, healthcare, agriculture, tourism and aviation.
Umanah cited the upcoming commissioning of 39 projects to mark the state’s 39th anniversary as proof of the government’s commitment to development.
The government affirmed that it respects the constitutional right of citizens to contest elections, but stressed that political freedom does not include the right to spread falsehoods or threaten public security.
“We therefore call on Senator Akpanudoedehe and all political actors to exercise restraint and responsibility,” the statement concluded. “Akwa Ibom will not be dragged back into the politics of bitterness. Government will protect the peace and tranquillity of our State and remain focused on development.”
