…Proscribes Masquerade Display Across Akwa Ibom
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has praised the member representing Urue Offong/Oruko State Constituency in the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Precious Selong, for successfully balancing her marital responsibilities with her political career—describing her as an exemplary model of the contemporary African woman.
Governor Eno gave the commendation at the 25th wedding anniversary celebration of Rt. Hon. Selong and her husband, Elder Selong Edem, a Zonal Director in the Ministry of Education. The ceremony was held at Methodist Church Nigeria, 67 Udo Umana Street, Uyo.
He explained that his presence at the event was inspired by Selong’s ability to maintain growth both in politics and in her home, noting that such balance has positively impacted the State.
Congratulating the couple for 25 years of marriage, the Governor thanked God for sustaining their union and blessing them with grown-up children, which he described as evidence of divine favour.
“I thank God for what He has done for Mr and Mrs Selong. I came today to rejoice with you; this is Thanksgiving. Anyone who understands Thanksgiving will not miss it. I celebrate with you for 25 years—not 25 days,” the Governor said.
He highlighted Selong’s commitment to her home despite her political rise:
“She has grown politically, yet she has grown her home maritally. Not many women grow politically and still maintain their homes. That is the lesson today. To hold political office as a lady, if God does not help you, you can lose your home. But for twenty-five years, she has done well. That her husband is here with her today shows she is doing the right thing.”
Governor Eno also expressed gratitude to the Methodist Church Nigeria for its steadfast support during his electioneering period, promising to remain a true servant of God and a representative of the Christian community.
He urged Christians to refrain from unnecessary criticism and instead join hands to build a peaceful and united Akwa Ibom, assuring that his administration remains committed to transparent and accountable governance.
“As a Government, we are on course. We are not perfect—no government can solve all problems—but we will keep building block by block. We are giving our all,” he said.
Statewide Ban on Masquerades
Governor Eno announced the commencement of the 2025 Christmas Festival on December 1 and declared a ban on masquerade displays during the festivities and across the State. He warned Local Government Chairmen against featuring masquerades in any cultural presentations.
“This is a Christian State. Don’t bring traditions where people carry masks and smoke oozes out of their mouths and heads. We ban masquerades in our streets. They are used to terrorize and extort innocent citizens. Anyone caught will be arrested and prosecuted.”
He directed the Commissioner of Police and other security agencies to enforce the order immediately.
Christmas Welfare Measures
Governor Eno further announced that the 13th-month salary, known as Eno-mber, will be paid to civil servants before December 20, 2025. He also disclosed plans to distribute rice to all villages across the State through the local government system, with further support from political office holders.
Messages from the Church
Preaching on the theme “Two Are Better Than One” from Ecclesiastes 4:11–14, the Archbishop of Uyo Diocese, His Grace Most Rev. John E. Koko-Bassey, described Rt. Hon. Precious Selong as a remarkable woman who has upheld the sanctity of marriage while excelling in leadership.
He emphasized that their marriage exemplifies the biblical principle that strengthens families and societies, calling on Christian couples to emulate their example.
Selong Expresses Gratitude
In her remarks, Rt. Hon. Selong thanked Governor Eno for leading a strong government delegation to honour the occasion. She applauded the Governor’s people-driven leadership style, noting that it has endeared him to the citizens. She pledged unwavering support for his administration beyond 2027.
