By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
The Coalition of Civil Society Organizations of Nigeria (CCSON) has condemned the “deleterious” social media attacks against Governor Umo Eno and his predecessor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel. The group called for an end to such campaigns to allow the state government to focus on its primary mandate of delivering public services.
Mr. Franklyn Isong, the Coordinator of the Coalition and State Director of the Center for Human Rights and Accountability Network, made the statement during a press conference on Thursday in Uyo.
The controversy began when Governor Eno’s donation of N10 million to a young girl, Precious Bodunde from Edo State, for her ability to correctly pronounce difficult English words was criticized online. Activist Fejiro Oliver dismissed the gesture as a waste of state funds. Oliver also called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) to investigate a purported N700 billion fraud linked to Governor Udom Emmanuel’s administration, alleging mismanagement of funds and enrichment of cronies and family members.
Governor Emmanuel’s Senior Special Assistant on Documentation and Research, Dr. Nduese Essien, condemned the attacks as “mischievous” and accused Oliver of acting at the behest of his paymasters. He further stated that the intention of such attacks was to portray Governor Eno as a leader who prioritizes outsiders over his own people, despite his efforts to support the underprivileged and foster young creative minds in Akwa Ibom.
In response, Isong urged that the social media attacks against both Governors Eno and Emmanuel cease to allow the government to focus on its core objectives. He emphasized that such distractions hinder the administration’s efforts to provide good governance, sustainable development, and human empowerment in Akwa Ibom State.
Isong also called on the 36 state governors to improve governance in the new year by realigning their administrations with evolving priorities and introducing fresh leadership perspectives. This, he argued, would enhance service delivery and ensure that qualified individuals occupy critical positions in state governments.
Furthermore, the Coalition expressed concern about the ongoing political conflict in Rivers State. Isong urged the state’s political leaders, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Barr. Nyesom Wike, to embrace peace and collaborate for the betterment of Rivers State and its citizens.
