Senate President Godswill Akpabio has praised Governor Umo Eno for his peace-building leadership and reconciliatory efforts, describing him as a unifying force in the state.
The commendation was delivered during a large political gathering at Etim Ekpo Township Stadium in Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, where the All Progressives Congress (APC) formally received Barrister Emmanuel Enoidem into the party amid public celebration.
Senator Akpabio, who previously served as governor of Akwa Ibom State, described Governor Eno as a practical leader who has demonstrated the ability to build bridges and foster unity. He noted that meaningful development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and unity.
The event, held on Saturday, January 24, 2026, brought together a large crowd of party supporters and political stakeholders, including the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi; the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; members of the State Executive Council; members of the National Assembly; local government chairmen; traditional rulers; and religious leaders.
A major highlight of the event was the reconciliation of Barrister Emmanuel Enoidem and his political associates with the APC leadership. Enoidem, a former stalwart of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), was officially welcomed into the APC as part of efforts to strengthen unity within the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.
Governor Eno commended Senator Akpabio for attending the event and supporting the drive for peace and unity in the senatorial district. He emphasized that the success achieved in reconciling political stakeholders would not have been possible without the leadership and support of the Senate President.
The governor also acknowledged the role of Barrister Enoidem in the reconciliation process, noting that the former PDP leader’s willingness to embrace peace and unity reflected a commitment to the overall development of the state.
The reception of Enoidem was described as a significant political milestone, with party leaders highlighting that his return to the APC would strengthen the party’s unity and enhance development in Etim Ekpo and the broader Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District.
The APC State Chairman, Chief Stephen Ntukekpo, praised the efforts of both Governor Eno and Senator Akpabio in fostering peace and unity, stating that the reconciliation would contribute to sustainable progress in the state.
In a symbolic gesture, Enoidem was officially received into the party through the presentation of the APC insignia, marking his formal acceptance as a bona fide member.
Local government chairman Hon. Gideon Uwa welcomed the gathering and acknowledged Governor Eno’s leadership style, describing it as a unifying force that has prevented political clashes in Etim Ekpo.
He noted that the reconciliation and reunion among political stakeholders in the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District had strengthened the sense of unity in the region and positioned the district for accelerated development.
The event also attracted notable political figures, including the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah; the Minister of State for Petroleum (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo; and other senior party leaders and stakeholders.
They all expressed gratitude for the peaceful resolution of political differences and emphasized that the event demonstrated the importance of unity and cooperation in ensuring progress ahead of the upcoming general elections.
The gathering ended with assurances that the reconciliation would strengthen the APC’s political structure in the district and contribute to broader stability and development in Akwa Ibom State.
