Idara Jerome, Uyo
With prayers, peace and continuity at the centre of its political message, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN), Akwa Ibom State Chapter, has endorsed Governor Umo Bassey Eno as its sole preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
The endorsement came from a special meeting of the fellowship held at the Faith and Power Church Headquarters in Uyo, where Christian leaders said their position was influenced not only by the governor’s performance in office but also by his identity as a pastor and member of the Pentecostal community.
In a communique signed by the PFN State Chairman, Bishop Dr. Emmanuel Etim, and the General Secretary, Apostle Dr. Nseabasi Udo-Okoh, the fellowship said it had considered the “political, developmental and spiritual realities” of Akwa Ibom before arriving at its decision.
The Christian body particularly commended Eno’s support for the advancement of the Christian faith and his recognition of the role of churches and faith-based organisations in promoting moral values, community development and social responsibility.
It also linked its call for continuity to what it described as the visible impact of the governor’s ARISE Agenda, saying the development framework had produced gains across infrastructure, education, healthcare, youth empowerment, human capital development and the economy.
“Having considered these and other relevant matters,” the PFN said, it “hereby endorses Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, as its sole preferred candidate” for the 2027 governorship election.
Beyond the endorsement, the fellowship appealed for a peaceful and orderly political process, urging its members, churches and the wider Christian community to remain prayerful and united as the state approaches the 2027 election.
The PFN also called on political stakeholders to shun conduct capable of undermining the peace of the state, insisting that all actors should operate with mutual respect and within the provisions of Nigerian law.
The fellowship said its position was rooted in its conviction that continuity, stability and sustainable development were necessary for Akwa Ibom to consolidate the gains of the present administration.
The resolution was formally presented to the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Religious Matters, Pastor Joe Linus, for transmission to Governor Eno. Bishop (Dr) Samuel Akpan moved the motion for the presentation, while Archbishop Effiong Ekoi seconded it.
Among those who delivered goodwill messages were Primate (Prof) Isaiah Issong, Dr. Sylvanus Ukafia, Archbishop Josephine Eggah, former governor and Archbishop (Senator) Helen Esuene, Pastor Tony Mfon and Bishop Godwin Akpaniko.
Others included Rev. Mrs. Enobong Ibok and Rev. Mrs. Angela Ashong, who joined in commending the PFN’s resolution and expressing support for the governor’s leadership and the continuation of the ARISE Agenda.
