On this day two years ago, the Court of Appeal in Abuja delivered a landmark judgment that upheld the integrity of Pastor Umo Eno, the current Governor of Akwa Ibom State. The verdict dismissed a high-profile case of alleged forgery, solidifying Pastor Eno’s candidacy under the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and affirming his eligibility for the governorship race.
The allegations, led by rival candidate Akan Okon, accused Pastor Eno of forging documents, including his WAEC certificate, birth certificate, and voter’s card. The controversy had shaken public confidence, with rumors suggesting Pastor Eno was merely a placeholder for another candidate. Even some loyal PDP members began to waver.
The Court’s Ruling
Despite the PDP candidate’s legal team missing the deadline to file their arguments, the appellate court upheld the judgment of the lower court presided over by Justice Agatha Okeke, stating that Akan Okon’s case lacked merit.
The three-member panel of judges unanimously ruled that:
- Pastor Umo Eno was the duly nominated candidate of the PDP.
- Akan Okon failed to prove beyond reasonable doubt the allegations of forgery.
- The burden of proof for criminal allegations rests with the petitioner.
The court, however, reduced the N15 million fine imposed by the lower court to N5 million, urging reconciliation between the parties as members of the same political family.
A Turning Point for Akwa Ibom
This ruling marked a significant turning point for Akwa Ibom politics. It not only silenced doubters but also reinforced the faith of those who believed in Pastor Eno’s candidacy as divinely inspired. Today, this historic vindication is celebrated alongside a momentous occasion: the New Year thanksgiving service of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), held at The Apostolic Church, Ikot Ekpene Udo.
Governor Eno’s Commitment to the People
Governor Umo Eno used the thanksgiving event to reiterate his dedication to the welfare of Akwa Ibom citizens and the labor force. Key announcements included:
- New Minimum Wage Implementation: The Governor reaffirmed his promise to pay workers ₦10,000 above the national minimum wage of ₦70,000, with retroactive effect from November of the previous year.
- Support for NUJ: Pastor Eno showcased his compassionate leadership by presenting an SUV to NUJ Chairman Amos Etuk, salon cars to other executive members, and initiating the completion of the long-abandoned NUJ secretariat building.
A Celebration of Divine Leadership
The thanksgiving service, strategically held in Pastor Eno’s home church, highlighted the gratitude of Akwa Ibom’s workforce and citizens for a leader seen as God-sent. The ceremony was a reminder of the divine orchestration many believe underpins Pastor Eno’s journey and governance.
Two years after the acrimonious legal battle, Governor Umo Eno has proven to be a compassionate and effective leader. His administration continues to prioritize the welfare of Akwa Ibom people, reinforcing the belief that his leadership is a blessing for the state.
