Umo Eno Effect: Ending era of adversarial politics in Akwa Ibom
By Ime Jacobs
Governor Umo Eno and Senator Godswill Akpabio’ in cordial relationship, a development observers say could be for interest of Akwa Ibom State.
Initially, this article was intended to focus on Governor Umo Eno’s achievements in one year in office as the anniversary draws nigh. However, as I reflected on those themes and began to take stock of the seemingly uncountable accomplishments of the governor before committing my ink to print, I realized that one of his outstanding achievements in less than a year worth spotlighting is his penchant for a bipartisan cooperation approach to governance.
This inspired my shift in focus from the anniversary write up (which will come afterwards) to share my thoughts on how he has promoted inclusivity.
2 Since the dawn of democracy in 1999, our nation has traversed a labyrinthine path, replete with opportunities and challenges. Regrettably, we neglected a vital strategic approach that would have catapulted our development to unprecedented heights – bipartisan corporation. This oversight has hindered our progress, allowing petty squabbles and partisan divisions to hinder our collective advancement.
3. In the nascent stages of our democracy, we fail to recognize the importance of unity and cooperation. Political ideologies and party affiliations become entrenched, birthing an environment of adversarial politics. This has, in its wake, open doors to missed opportunities for collaborative policymaking and inefficient governance due to partisan gridlock, neglected critical sectors, such as education and infrastructure
4. However, the emergence of Eno’s era does so toe-to-to with the dawn of bipartisan corporation. He recognizes the imperative of unity and cooperation, bridging the chasm between political divides. In effect, as one of the governor’s achievements, has been able to harmonize policies for sustainable development, foster a culture of compromise and understanding while ensuring inclusive growth and prosperity for all.
5. There is no way Eno’s ambitious ideas, programs, and schemes enshrined in the ARISE Agenda would see the light of the day without a collaborative environment. This means bringing individuals and groups from diverse political parties together to find common ground and work towards shared goals. This ‘common ground’ approach is essential for the effective implementation of the Umo Eno’s Arise Agenda.
6. In today’s polarized world, bipartisan cooperation is vital for addressing pressing issues and driving progress. As the Annang proverb goes, ‘when cobwebs unite, they can tie a tiger,’ highlighting the strength that comes from unity and cooperation. Bipartisan politics is about finding common ground and working together towards a shared purpose, and this is precisely what Governor Eno’s administration is striving for.
7. The most disheartening aspect of our recent past is that we were oblivious to the detrimental effects of partisan politics for far too long. This narrow-minded approach hindered even development and the fair distribution of governance, as politicians prioritized only those who voted for them and the areas they represented.
8. This blatant disregard for the principles of democracy stifled its very essence. As I boldly declare, partisan politics was the arch-nemesis of democracy’s core values, and we suffered under its oppressive grip for far too long.
However, we can now express our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for shattering this destructive cycle. His remarkable achievement in putting an end to partisan politics makes his era epochal.
9. In the past, political affiliations often led to bitter divisions, with members of different parties viewing each other as enemies. This toxic atmosphere of discord and hostility permeated every aspect of politics, resulting in a lopsided development landscape. Political loyalty was the primary determinant of access to development, with areas that didn’t vote for the ruling party often being left behind.
This short-sighted approach meant that entire communities were denied essential resources and infrastructure, simply because of their political beliefs. Thankfully, this harmful dynamic has been dismantled, paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable approach to governance.
10. Political economists agree that bipartisan cooperation is essential for socio-political development and effective governance in developing regions. Robert Putnam’s social capital theory supports this, stating that high social capital enables effective collaboration. Governor Umo Eno’s bipartisan approach in Akwa Ibom has successfully created a conducive environment for development, demonstrating the power of cooperation in driving progress.
11. The Akwa Ibom community expresses gratitude to Governor Umo Eno for dismantling partisan barriers that have long impeded progress. Like many regions, our state has grappled with divisive politics, a pervasive issue in the political landscape that now necessitates collaboration and cohesion to advance. Bipartisan unity is essential for efficient governance, facilitating legislation, well-informed policy choices, and united efforts to tackle critical challenges.”
12.True to the glimmer of it, but for the timely intervention of Governor Umo Eno’s bipartisan approach, Akwa Ibom would have been irreparably fractured. The state was teetering on the edge of discord, with partisan sentiments threatening to tear it asunder. The three districts were on the verge of becoming staunchly divided, each entrenched in their own political beliefs. It’s astonishing to consider how such a deeply polarized society could have hoped to achieve meaningful development.
In such a scenario, progress would have been held hostage by partisan interests, and the state’s potential would have been squandered. But Governor Eno’s leadership and commitment to bipartisan cooperation have steered Akwa Ibom back from the brink, fostering an environment where unity and progress can thrive.
13. Eno’s bipartisan approach has sent shockwaves of unity and cooperation throughout Akwa Ibom, resonating with every citizen. Its impact is palpable, tangible, and far-reaching, leaving no one untouched – not even the deaf can ignore its reverberations.
14. In recognition of this remarkable achievement, Senate President Obong (Dr.) Godswill Akpabio publicly acknowledged Governor Eno’s efforts during his courtesy call on the governor in Uyo on May the 3rd, praising him for his exemplary leadership and commitment to unity.
Senator Akpabio thus commented:
“I must let you know from my heart that you are a good man…continue to be yourself. You have told me what to do. So I bless you. I bless your government. I bless Akwa Ibom State. And I bless all our endeavours.
“No evil shall befall you. Those who do not want you to exist, will not exist. God will continue to guide you and grant you the wisdom to do the right thing for Akwa Ibom people. As you have celebrated me tonight, you will be celebrated in future. As you have honoured me, you will be honoured and the honour will remain for generations to come, in Jesus name. Amen!”
15. Here comes yet again an era of a dynamic environment where diverse perspectives and expertise converge, yielding innovative solutions and effective governance.
This political approach to governance is rooted in the understanding that the state’s development is not a partisan issue, but a collective responsibility that seeks to harness the best ideas and talents from across the political spectrum..
16. On this score, the ambitious plans outlined in the Arise Agenda can now flourish in a harmonious environment. It’s been proven that development and progress cannot thrive in an atmosphere of conflict and discord.
This achievement stands out as the greatest of all, as it paves the way for subsequent accomplishments that shall trail the Governor!
