Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has urged political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections to conduct their campaigns on ideas, policies, and development programmes rather than engaging in personal attacks, insults, or divisive rhetoric.
Governor Eno made the appeal while speaking at the closing ceremony of a three-day prayer summit held to mark the commencement of the fourth year of his administration.
He stressed that elections should be determined by the strength of ideas and governance plans, rather than bitterness or efforts to discredit opponents, adding that political power ultimately rests with God.
“As we go into the election, let us continue to maintain decorum. Everyone is free to join any political party, but I know one thing, power belongs to God,” he said.
The governor also emphasised that every citizen has the constitutional right to belong to any political party of their choice, but insisted that political activities must be carried out with respect and civility in order to maintain peace and stability in the state.
According to him, leadership should not be driven by vindictiveness or bitterness, noting that Akwa Ibom has moved beyond such divisive political practices.
“Let us have a battle of ideas and let the people decide who God has sent to them. Let us tell the people what we have done and what we intend to do,” he stated.
Eno further called for unity and reconciliation among religious leaders in the state, saying that peace and development can only thrive in an atmosphere of mutual respect and cooperation.
He used the occasion to welcome prominent clerics, including Archbishop Cletus Bassey and Rev. Angela Ashong, describing their participation as a sign of unity and shared commitment to the state’s progress.
“I use this opportunity to call on all spiritual fathers and mothers. We do not hold any grudge against anyone.
”Our strength is in our togetherness, and we must continue to work and pray together for the peace of our state,” he added.
The governor also urged residents to continue praying for Nigeria and its leaders, including President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
As part of the event, the governor announced educational support for members of the Young Professionals and Harmonic Voices choir groups in recognition of their contributions during the programme.
The prayer summit featured worship sessions and ministrations from gospel artistes, including Mercy Chinwo and Gaise Baba.
Delivering a sermon titled “Provoking the Supernatural Wonders of God,” Senior Pastor of Shepherd House Auditorium, Apostle Joshua Talena, described divine wonders as manifestations of God’s power, urging Christians to deepen their spiritual lives through repentance and growth.
Similarly, Senior Pastor of Insight Bible Church, Sylvanus Ukafia, said divine intervention often follows obedience and consecration, stressing that moral and spiritual values remain essential to societal development.
