Ini Ememobong, Akwa Ibom State’s Commissioner for Information and Strategy and Special Duties, has resigned following Gov. Umo Eno’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The commissioner announced his resignation through a Facebook post on Thursday, explaining that his resignation was in accordance with the Governor’s directive that any political appointee unwilling to join the APC should step aside.
The post reads: “Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.”
Ememobong, a People’s Democratic Party hi(PDP) stalwart, stressed that his decision was informed by his principles and long-held antipathy towards the APC.
He clarified that his resignation was not motivated by any personal differences with Gov. Eno.
He wrote: “While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.
“This decision does not affect my personal relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries (Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port).
“I have and will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.”
Ememobong thanked both the governor and his predecessor, Mr Udom Emmanuel, saying, “Let me convey the very sincere appreciation of my family to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, for appointing me into his cabinet.
“Our very special appreciation goes to Mr Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State, for his enduring love and belief in me, especially for appointing me into the Executive Council during his administration.”
Looking back on his time in public service, Ememobong expressed pride in his achievements and asked for understanding.
He said: “Given another opportunity, I will do more. I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding.”
Persecondnews reports that Gov. Eno defected to the APC at a low-key event attended by several APC governors and prominent figures, including Hope Uzodinma, the Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, and Bassey Otu, Governor of Cross River State.
The event was held at the Government House banquet hall in Uyo.
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