By Nurat Uthman
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has announced the dissolution of his 25-member cabinet, effective tonight, January 10, 2025.
The announcement will be formalized during a Valedictory Dinner at 7 PM in the Banquet Hall of Government House, Uyo.
Speculations about the dissolution had circulated in government quarters since Wednesday, with many anticipating this major shake-up. A political stakeholder, speaking to Saturday Vanguard on condition of anonymity, confirmed the dinner and dissolution plans, adding, “All the Commissioners are going. He [Governor Umo Eno] will then appoint new people of his choice.”
Some outgoing commissioners had reportedly sensed the impending dissolution, particularly towards the end of 2024.
Governor Eno had hinted at this move during a media interaction in September 2024, marking the state’s 37th anniversary. Addressing public calls for a cabinet overhaul, he stated, “As a leader, you must understand when to act and when not to act… I know we should dissolve both the boards and the State Executive Council. Sixteen months into a new administration, you need to rejig the system.”
He further assured that the process would not be abrupt, saying, “We will not do it as a surprise. I will hold a Valedictory Dinner to thank the EXCO for their service.”
The dissolution ends months of speculation and suggests a break from the influence of the immediate past governor, Udom Emmanuel, with whom some citizens believed Governor Eno shared control of state affairs.
