By Patrick Idowu
Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information and Special Duties, Comrade Ini Ememobong, has resigned from Governor Umo Eno’s cabinet, citing political differences following the governor’s defection to the All Progressives Congress.
Governor Eno announced his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party on Friday, stating that aligning Akwa Ibom with the federal government was necessary for continued development.
However, Ememobong, who also served as Commissioner for the Ibom Deep Sea Port Project, declined to join the governor in his new political journey.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page, Ememobong said he resigned in line with the governor’s directive that appointees unwilling to move to the APC should step down.
He described his exit from government as “another bend” in his political journey.
“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,” 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. I have and will continue to have tremendous respect for His Excellency Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.”
Reflecting on his service, Ememobong said, “I look back with great satisfaction at the work I have done and leave the ultimate judgement to history and posterity. Given another opportunity, I will do more.”
He also expressed deep appreciation to both Governor Eno and his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, for the opportunities to serve.
“I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding. As usual, I do not know the future, but I know He who holds the future and I trust that in the end, all things work together for good to those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose,” he concluded.
