Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has broken his silence a month after the abrupt dismissal of the former Managing Director of the state-owned Ibom Power Company, Engr. Meyen Etukudoh.
The governor, who had faced public criticism for his silence on the matter, addressed the issue on the 17th of December, 2024, during the Day-2 session of the ongoing Inter-Ministerial Briefings and End-of-Year Review in Uyo.
He defended the decision, describing it as a necessary step to restore order and drive development in the state’s power sector.
The controversy began after a four-day power outage in the state. The then-MD, Engr. Etukudoh, issued a press statement attributing the blackout to the failure of Acugas, the company’s gas supplier, which he claimed had cut off supply due to an outstanding N40 billion debt owed by the state.
However, shortly after the statement, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, announced Etukudoh’s immediate removal without offering an official reason.
It quickly became apparent that the dismissal was tied to the press statement, which many believed undermined the state government.
Confirming these suspicions, Governor Eno, speaking at the banquet hall, emphasized that public servants have no authority to issue press statements without clearance.
He criticized the former MD for lacking tact in handling the debt situation with Acugas, choosing instead to publicize the issue in a way that could have incited unrest.
The governor expressed concern over the potential consequences of such a statement, noting, “If Akwa Ibom youths were irrational, they could have burned down Acugas’ facility without knowing the full story.”
He commended the youths for their maturity and restraint.
Looking ahead, Eno announced plans for a state-wide power summit between January and March 2025.
This gathering, involving stakeholders and energy experts, aims to produce a comprehensive Power Master Plan to drive industrial growth and achieve the goal of 24-hour electricity supply.
He issued a directive to the Commissioner for Power, Engr. Camillus Umoh, to ensure this vision is realized.
In his remarks, the governor expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the Ibom Power Company during his tenure.
“As a sitting governor for 18 months, the only time I received a brief from Ibom Power was when the Honourable Commissioner for Power took charge. Such a critical asset, yet no one reached out to me,” he said.
Reflecting on Etukudoh’s dismissal, he noted, “Public office is not a lifetime appointment. When the time comes, others will take over. The pressure mounted after the decision was unnecessary.
Public servants must understand that issuing press statements without authorization is unacceptable. Sometimes people mistake simplicity for weakness.”
He further criticized Etukudoh for poor judgment, including delegating authority to a contractor in his absence.
“It’s like handing your car to a mechanic and saying, ‘If there’s a problem, let me know.’ Of course, the car will develop issues because the mechanic needs to make a living.”
Governor Eno’s firm stance underscores his commitment to restructuring the power sector, ensuring accountability, and fostering sustainable development in Akwa Ibom State.