Disquiet as Ex-Governor Udom Emmanuel Loses Security Protection in Akwa Ibom State

Tension has reportedly gripped several parts of Akwa Ibom State following the sudden withdrawal of security operatives assigned to the immediate past governor, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, over the weekend.

According to multiple sources, the former governor’s official security details — including personnel from the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services (DSS), and other security agencies — were recalled without prior notice. The development has sparked growing concern and speculation among residents and political observers in the state.

Mr. Emmanuel, who served as governor of Akwa Ibom State from 2015 to 2023, was known for maintaining a relatively peaceful administration throughout his tenure. However, the abrupt decision to strip him of his security details has raised fears of political tension, especially among his loyalists and members of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

A source close to the former governor described the situation as “worrisome,” stating that such action could expose the ex-governor to potential risks. The source emphasized that all former governors, according to standard security protocol, are typically entitled to a minimal level of protection, even after leaving office.

Security analysts have expressed concern over what they described as an unusual move, questioning whether the development might be politically motivated or linked to ongoing power tussles within the state. Analysts warn that the situation could heighten anxiety if not properly managed, given the fragile political atmosphere in the Niger Delta region.

Meanwhile, residents and political stakeholders are calling on the Akwa Ibom State Government and relevant federal authorities to clarify the circumstances surrounding the withdrawal of the former governor’s security team. Some have also urged the authorities to restore the security arrangement promptly to prevent any potential breach of peace.

Efforts to reach the spokespersons for both the state police command and Mr. Udom Emmanuel’s media team proved unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.

Observers believe this unfolding event could test the strength of political alliances in Akwa Ibom and might influence the political direction ahead of the next election cycle if tensions continue to rise.