Khadijah Shehu Abdulkareem
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has expressed strong disapproval of what he described as “selfish and deceitful” actions by some of his aides, accusing them of misleading their constituents about their actual earnings from government.
Reports had surfaced that several aides were presenting their monthly pay as “a paltry ₦250,000 to ₦300,000,” a claim the governor dismissed as deliberate deception.
Speaking at the Ikono/Ini Federal Constituency Town Square Meeting, Governor Eno said he was compelled to set the record straight after repeated complaints from constituents who felt shortchanged by their representatives.
“It is wrong and ungrateful for anyone benefiting from this government to deceive their people by downplaying what they earn,” the governor stated.
He revealed that contrary to the narrative being pushed by some aides, none of the appointees—including Personal Assistants (PAs), Special Assistants (SAs), Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), and Commissioners—earns less than ₦1 million monthly.
Governor Eno likened the situation to a cantankerous woman who constantly complains about her marriage but refuses to leave, warning aides uncomfortable with the system to “seek alternative avenues for employment.”
The governor stressed the need for sincerity and accountability, urging government appointees to complement his administration’s efforts in fighting poverty instead of shirking responsibilities.