Governor Umo Eno has explained the controversial decision to sack Ibom Power MD, Engr. Meyen Etukudoh, highlighting issues of financial mismanagement, unauthorized press statements, and failure to follow protocols. Read details below…
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has broken his silence one month after the removal of Engr. Meyen Etukudoh, the former Managing Director of Ibom Power Company. Addressing the issue during the Day-2 session of the Inter-Ministerial Briefings and End-of-Year Review in Uyo, the governor revealed that the decision was necessary to restore order, accountability, and growth in the state’s power sector.
The controversy began when the former Ibom Power MD issued a press statement attributing a four-day blackout in the state to Acugas, the gas supplier, alleging they had cut off supply due to a N40 billion debt owed by the state. Hours later, the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, announced Etukudoh’s sack without providing details.
Speaking on the matter, Governor Eno criticized the former MD’s actions, emphasizing that public servants must seek proper authorization before making such public declarations. He described the press statement as reckless, noting that it could have incited unrest if Akwa Ibom youths were not as rational as they have proven to be.
“When you owe someone N40 billion and then publicly accuse them of cutting off supply, you risk creating unnecessary tension. Diplomacy should have been employed in addressing the issue,” the governor stated.
Eno also revealed troubling practices under Etukudoh’s leadership, including delegating critical responsibilities to contractors. He described one instance where the Ibom Power MD, before going on leave, handed over operational control of the power plant to a contractor, saying such actions betrayed a lack of accountability and professionalism.
Addressing concerns over the state’s power supply, Governor Eno pledged to transform Akwa Ibom into a 24-hour power state. He announced plans to convene a power summit between January and March 2025 to develop a comprehensive Power Master Plan. The summit will involve experts, stakeholders, and industry professionals to chart a sustainable path for the energy sector.
The governor stressed the importance of collaboration between the state and federal governments in the ongoing Ibom Power project, urging stakeholders to prioritize long-term benefits over short-term disruptions.
“This is a government-appointed position, and no one is meant to stay forever. My administration is committed to making tough decisions for the progress of Akwa Ibom,” Eno added.
He assured Akwa Ibom residents that efforts to ensure consistent power supply are in full swing, with the Commissioner for Power, Engr. Camillus Umoh, given a mandate to fast-track initiatives that will deliver reliable energy to the state.
Governor Eno concluded by calling on public servants and stakeholders to maintain professionalism, avoid unnecessary drama, and focus on the collective goal of state development.
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