“I Pay All My PAs At Least ₦1 Million Monthly,” Says Governor Umo Eno

Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has clarified that none of his Personal Assistants (PAs) earn less than one million naira per month, addressing concerns over the remuneration of his political aides.

Speaking at a Town Square Meeting with residents of Ikono and Ini Federal Constituency in Ibiaku Ntok Okpo, Governor Eno criticised public claims by some aides that downplayed their earnings.

He particularly praised Blessed Essien, his PA on Protocol, for using part of his salary to fund a water borehole project in his community. In recognition of this initiative, Eno announced Essien’s promotion to Special Assistant (SA) on Public Works.

“I received a brochure about a PA who used part of his earnings to construct and reticulate a borehole in his village. That’s commendable. But others with similar opportunities are not engaging their communities meaningfully,” the governor said.

He stressed, “Let it be clear: no Personal Assistant to the Governor earns less than one million naira monthly. It’s misleading to describe this as a ‘stipend.’ That’s substantial income, and I expect transparency and accountability from all political appointees.”

Governor Eno also directed the Secretary to the State Government to compile and publish a full list of political appointees by local government area in a national newspaper.

He urged constituents to hold officials accountable, saying, “Ask your PAs, your SAs, SSAs, and Commissioners — what have they done for your communities?”

The governor concluded by reaffirming the importance of performance in public office, noting that Essien’s promotion was a result of his tangible impact.