The Akwa Ibom State Government has declared Friday, November 29, 2024, a public holiday to honor the late Pastor Mrs. Patience Eno, the wife of Governor Umo Eno, who will be laid to rest on that day. This decision was announced by the Secretary to the State Government, Prince Uwah, following consultations with the grieving Eno family.

“To mark the final farewell of our beloved First Lady, the Akwa Ibom State Government, in collaboration with the Eno family, has declared Friday, November 29, 2024, a Work-Free Day to allow Akwa Ibomites and other residents to pay their respects during the funeral ceremonies in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area,” Uwah said.

Governor Eno Proscribes Ibom Youth Council Amid Security Concerns

In a separate development, Governor Umo Eno announced the proscription of the Ibom Youth Council (IYC), citing concerns over public security. The IYC, previously recognized as the state’s umbrella youth organization, was deemed to pose a threat to public safety and order.

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According to a statement by the Commissioner for Information, Ini Ememobong, “The Ibom Youth Council and its members have been determined to be harmful to the welfare of the people and government of Akwa Ibom State. All activities of the group, including meetings, rallies, and other gatherings, are hereby banned.”

The proscription order, issued under the authority of Section 71 of the Criminal Code Law, 39, Vol. 2, Laws of Akwa Ibom State 2022, is officially titled the Ibom Youth Council (Proscription) Order, 2024. It took immediate effect upon its announcement.

Security agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the ban and to enforce the cessation of all IYC-related activities across the state. Residents have been urged to cooperate with authorities as the government works to maintain peace and order during this sensitive period.