Governor Umo Eno has charged the people of Akwa Ibom State to emulate Americans, who he said are united on matters of policy.

A Monday statement issued by Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Ekerete Udoh quoted the governor as giving the charge on Sunday while receiving leaders and members of socio-cultural groups from the three senatorial districts of the state.

The groups paid a condolence visit to the governor?s country home in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, to sympathise with him over the passing on of his wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno.

According to the governor, the delegation, which brought together all ethnic groups in the state, symbolised the strength of unity?a feat that gave him solace even in the midst of grief.

?As I sit here, I listened to everyone speaking in one accord. If the death of my wife can bring this unity, I know she is smiling from the balcony of heaven. We must be united across all backgrounds.

?We must rise and behave like the Americans, who speak with one voice in matters of policy. Today will go down in history as the day Akwa Ibom people came together. This is a strong message that no one can divide us. When I see people from diverse parties hug and work together, I feel deeply happy.

?For all of us to agree to come together for this meeting shows our strength in unity. We must continue to preach the gospel of forgiveness from one ethnic group to another. Since I assumed office, I have tried to demonstrate unity of purpose. In every Local Government Area, we have projects. This is my way of showing that we can truly unite.

?Akwa Ibom belongs to all of us. This gathering is very significant to me. Even in the sadness we are experiencing, I draw strength from the unity I have witnessed. As long as God keeps me, I will remain the governor for all.?

The governor thanked the leaders of all ethnic groups for their understanding and tolerance, particularly during the Traditional Rulers Amendment Bill issues.

He noted that the unity displayed during that period helped his administration to resolve the issue.

He described the visit by the ethnic nationalities as reassuring and as a call to rededicate himself to greater service to the state and humanity.

He also expressed gratitude on behalf of his family, saying, ?The family is grateful. Akwa Ibomites from all walks of life have supported us. We thank you. I look forward to an opportunity beyond this funeral when we can all sit together, share thoughts, and deepen our bonds of togetherness.?

The delegation includeincludeed royal fathers and leaders from various groups, including Akpakip Oro Elders Advisory Council, National Council for Women Societies, Ifum Ibom Ibibio, Afe Annang, Ekid People Union/Ekid Community, Afigh Iwaad Ekid, Ati Annang, Eket Senatorial District Elders, Uyo Senatorial District Elders, Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Elders, Mgbandiak Obolo, Akwa Esop Imaisong Ibibio, Mboho Mkparawa Ibibio, Oro Union, and others. (Daily Sun)

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