Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has addressed concerns regarding the salaries of his political aides, emphasizing that none of his Personal Assistants (PAs) are paid less than one million naira per month.
During a Town Square Meeting with residents of Ikono and Ini Federal Constituency at Ibiaku Ntok Okpo, Governor Eno voiced frustration over remarks from some aides who grumbled about their compensation.
The Governor commended his Personal Assistant on Protocol, Blessed Essien, for allocating a portion of his salary to finance a water borehole initiative for his community.
As recognition for this effort, the Governor declared Essien’s promotion to the role of Special Assistant (SA) on Public Works.
Contrasting Essien’s initiative with other appointees, Governor Eno stated, “I received a brochure about a PA who used part of his earnings to construct and reticulate a borehole in his village. That’s commendable. But others with similar opportunities are not engaging their communities meaningfully.”
He further clarified, “Let it be clear: no Personal Assistant to the Governor earns less than one million naira monthly. It’s misleading to describe such as a ‘stipend.’ That’s substantial income, and I expect transparency and accountability from all political appointees.”
Governor Eno also instructed the Secretary to the State Government to gather and publish a comprehensive list of all political appointees, organized by local government areas, in a national newspaper.
Urging citizens to hold their representatives accountable, he remarked, “Ask your PAs, your SAs, SSAs, and Commissioners — what have they done for your communities?”
He wrapped up by stressing the value of performance and duty in public service, noting that Essien’s elevation was a direct outcome of his tangible contributions.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli
