A concerned citizen of Abak, Kokoette Udom, has raised alarm over what he describes as a troubling political development in Abak, warning that silence from key actors could undermine democratic principles in the area.
In a strongly worded statement, Udom said Abak “now hangs on a thread” amid reports alleging that Umo Eno directed Aniekan Umanah to meet with the Speaker and mobilize support for his reelection.
According to him, the claim if true represents “a dangerous encroachment on democratic boundaries,” stressing that while the office of a governor carries significant influence, it should not be used to engineer outcomes in local political arrangements.
“Abak is not a playground for political experiments, neither is it a territory to be quietly controlled through backchannel directives,” Udom stated.
He emphasized that zoning and rotational arrangements, though sometimes informal, are essential for fairness, inclusion and stability. Undermining such principles, he warned, could lead to a breakdown of trust within the political system.
“Democracy does not die only through loud and dramatic actions. Sometimes, it dies in whispers in closed door meetings, in subtle endorsements and in calculated silence,” he added.
However, Udom noted that if the allegation is false, then serious questions must be directed at Aniekan Umanah. He cautioned against the use of the Governor’s name to advance personal or factional interests, describing such actions as “reckless” and “deeply dishonest.”
“It suggests a willingness to distort reality for political leverage, create an illusion of backing where none exists and pressure others into alignment under false pretences. That is manipulation dressed in political clothing,” he said.
Udom called for immediate clarity from both parties, urging Governor Umo Eno to publicly state whether such a directive was given and for Umanah to explain the basis of his actions.
“At stake is more than a speakership ambition. It is the integrity of the political process, respect for local consensus and the credibility of those who claim to lead,” he noted.
He concluded by warning that Abak cannot be governed through “insinuations or political smoke and mirrors,” stressing that truth remains the only path to preventing growing suspicion from degenerating into widespread distrust.
“The people are watching, and this time, silence will speak louder than any statement,” he said.
