Aniekan Uko, who served as Special Adviser on Legislative Affairs to Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, has stepped down from his position, citing plans to focus on his political aspirations.
Uko, a former Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly and representative of the Ibesikpo Asutan State Constituency, conveyed his decision in a resignation letter addressed to the governor. In the letter, he explained that his exit was motivated by the need to concentrate on future opportunities aligned with his personal and political goals.
The letter reads 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.”
Sources suggest that the former lawmaker is preparing to contest for a higher legislative position at the national level, specifically in the House of Representatives, often referred to as the Green Chamber.
His resignation comes against the backdrop of earlier directives issued by Governor Eno, who had cautioned political appointees against leaving their roles to pursue elective offices. The governor had also revealed that an arrangement was in place to grant automatic return tickets to sitting State and National Assembly members.
According to the governor, this agreement formed part of the conditions surrounding political alignments when key stakeholders, including himself, moved to the All Progressives Congress in June 2025.
However, that proposed arrangement later faced strong opposition from aspirants within the political space, who argued that granting automatic tickets undermines democratic principles, disrupts zoning arrangements, and limits the electorate’s right to freely choose their representatives.
Despite the earlier controversy, Uko’s resignation signals a renewed push by political actors positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections, as alignments and ambitions continue to evolve across party lines.
What you should know
Aniekan Uko’s resignation reflects growing political activity ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
His move suggests an intention to contest for a higher legislative office, likely in the House of Representatives. The development also highlights tensions within political structures, especially around issues like automatic tickets and internal democracy.
While Governor Umo Eno had earlier discouraged appointees from seeking elective positions, resistance from stakeholders forced a rethink of such arrangements.
Uko’s decision underscores how political ambitions often override internal agreements, signaling intensified competition and realignments as the election cycle approaches across states and parties.
