Aniekan Uko, former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and Special Adviser to Governor Umo Eno on Legislative Affairs, has resigned from his appointment.
Uko, who represented Ibesikpo Asutan State Constituency during his time in the legislature, confirmed his resignation in a letter addressed to the governor, stating that his decision was driven by a desire to pursue fresh political aspirations.
The resignation letter read in part: “Please accept this formal notice of my resignation as Honorary Special Adviser on Legislative Affairs, as I embark on a new chapter to pursue future opportunities that align with my goals.
“I am grateful for the experience, and I appreciate the chance to have served. However, due to evolving circumstances, I find it necessary to step down in order to focus on my aspiration.
”I remain hopeful that I will continue to support your administration in other capacities.
“I wish you and the state continuous growth, success, and best wishes for a brighter future, while I extend sincere thanks for the trust and support extended to me during my tenure.”
There are strong indications that the former Speaker’s resignation is connected to his ambition to contest for a seat in the National Assembly.
Governor Umo Eno had previously cautioned members of his cabinet against leaving government appointments to seek elective positions, insisting that serving lawmakers at both state and national levels would be given automatic return tickets.
The governor reportedly said the arrangement formed part of a political agreement reached before the mass defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on June 6, 2025.
However, the policy was later dropped after objections from some aspirants, who argued that it undermined democratic competition, zoning arrangements, and voters’ freedom of choice.
Further details on Uko’s next political move are still unfolding, but his resignation is seen as part of early manoeuvring ahead of future legislative contests in the state and beyond.
