Akwa Ibom Denies Claims Of Security Withdrawal From Ex Governor

The Akwa Ibom State government has dismissed reports alleging that Governor Umo Eno ordered the withdrawal of police officers attached to his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, describing the story as false and misleading.

The rumour, which circulated across some media platforms, claimed that the governor had removed security personnel from Emmanuel’s residence due to a supposed political disagreement ahead of the 2027 elections. The report also cited an alleged directive from a police officer ordering operatives attached to the former governor and other former officials to report back to the police headquarters in Uyo.

However, the state government refuted the claim, insisting that no such order came from Governor Eno. In a statement released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerete Udoh, Commissioner for Information Aniekan Umanah said the story was entirely fabricated to create tension.

Umanah explained that decisions on the deployment or withdrawal of police officers are the sole responsibility of the Inspector-General of Police and the State Commissioner of Police, not the governor. He added that all former governors of Akwa Ibom State continue to enjoy the security protection granted to them by law.

He stated that no complaints had been received from any former governor or their aides regarding the alleged withdrawal, describing the claim as a product of political mischief.

Umanah called on residents to disregard what he termed baseless propaganda, assuring that Governor Eno remains committed to peace and good governance in the state.

He reaffirmed that the administration would continue to protect the rights and safety of all citizens, regardless of political differences, and maintain harmony across Akwa Ibom.