Governor preaches issue-based politics, reconciles with former critics as Akwa Ibom Prayer Summit ends on a high note.
As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has delivered a strong message to politicians: campaigns should be fought with ideas, vision and performance—not insults, bitterness and personal attacks.
Addressing thousands of worshippers and stakeholders at the closing ceremony of the state’s three-day Prayer Summit in Uyo, Governor Eno said elections are not won through hostility but through convincing the people with credible plans and proven leadership.
The Governor reminded political actors that while democracy guarantees freedom of political association, peace and civility must remain non-negotiable.
“Everyone is free to join any political party of choice, but power belongs to God,” he declared, drawing applause from the congregation.
In what appeared to be a direct appeal for a new political culture, Eno warned against ambition driven by anger, revenge or personal grievances.
“Leadership is not about pulling others down. Akwa Ibom has matured beyond politics of insults. Let us engage in a contest of ideas and allow the people to make their choice,” he said.
The summit also became a platform for reconciliation as the Governor publicly welcomed respected church leaders who stood on different political platforms during the 2023 elections, among them Archbishop Cletus Bassey and Rev. Angela Ashong.
Describing unity as a prerequisite for development, Eno said Akwa Ibom’s future depends on its ability to rise above political and religious divisions.
“Our strength is in our togetherness. We must pray together, work together and build together,” he said.
The Governor further called for sustained prayers for Nigeria and its leadership, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, while expressing appreciation to ministers, worship teams and participants who contributed to the success of the summit.
Adding a practical touch to the spiritual gathering, he announced educational support for members of the Young Professionals Choir and Harmonic Voices Choir, encouraging them to continue developing their talents.
The summit’s spiritual sessions were led by notable ministers, including Apostle Joshua Talena, who challenged believers to provoke God’s supernatural wonders through repentance, consecration and faith, and Pastor Sylvanus Ukafia, who stressed that God’s wonders manifest in communities that honour Him.
With powerful worship ministrations from gospel artistes Mercy Chinwo and Gaise Baba, the summit ended with renewed calls for unity, peaceful politics, responsible leadership and sustained prayers for the peace and prosperity of Akwa Ibom State.
By; Ikechukwu Agbamegbue, Uyo.
