By Theresa Donatus, Uyo
When Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno recently instructed his commissioners to ensure their visible presence at state functions, the public reaction was swift and polarized.
To some, it seemed like an overreach, an unnecessary flex of executive muscle. But to others, particularly those attuned to the philosophy behind the directive, it was a subtle but powerful recalibration of leadership culture.
Beneath the political buzz lies a deeper conversation: What does it mean to govern in full view? For Governor Eno, presence isn’t ceremonial, it’s foundational.
Governor Eno’s approach is not about optics for optics’ sake. It is about forging a leadership identity that is both seen and felt. Mr. Aniefiok Ezekiel Eduok, a postgraduate student of Public Relations at the International Institute of Journalism in Uyo, makes the case plainly in his paper, “Strengthening Governance Through Presence: Why Governor Eno’s Directive Makes Sense”.
According to Eduok, “Governor Eno’s call is not a command for loyalty, nor a demand for routine attendance. It’s a leadership philosophy grounded in shared responsibility. And shared responsibility must be visible.”
Eduok draws parallels between the governor’s leadership style and the biblical model of mentorship and proximity. “Just as Jesus surrounded himself with his disciples and led through closeness, Governor Eno is asking his team to lead not from afar, but from within the heart of government action,” he explained, referencing Mark 3:14: “He appointed twelve that they might be with him.”
To critics who argue that commissioners’ time is better spent behind desks than at public functions, Eduok offers a structural reminder: “Commissioners are political appointees. The technical day-to-day of ministries lies with permanent secretaries, the experienced civil servants who keep the machinery of government running.”
In that light, commissioners’ presence at events becomes less about logistics and more about symbolism, and strategy. “When they show up, it signals ownership of policies. It allows for real-time collaboration, spontaneous discussions, and on-the-ground decision-making. It’s governance in motion,” Eduok added.
Much has been made of the public nature of Governor Eno’s caution. Was it necessary to air such instructions openly? For Eduok, the answer lies in the spirit of transparency. “In an era where citizens demand openness, public accountability cannot be reserved for scandals alone. Commissioners are public servants, they serve in the public eye, and correction, when needed, must meet that same standard.”
Governor Eno himself referenced Theodore Roosevelt in defending the decision: “To announce that there must be no criticism of the president… is morally treasonable to the American public.” In Eno’s context, criticism and correction are part of democratic leadership, not a deviation from it.
What Governor Eno is building, Eduok argues, is not just an administration, it’s a leadership culture. One that sees governance not as an exercise in command, but in communion. “It is a pastoral model, less about chastisement and more about alignment. A shepherd must walk among his flock.” Eduok said
Biblical and historical allusions underpin much of the governor’s approach. From Moses and Joshua to Lincoln’s “team of rivals,” proximity to leadership has always been a key to effective governance.
“Leaders who remain close to the people, and to each other, builds trust, inspire collaboration, and are better prepared for the responsibilities they carry”. He added
In Eduok’s view, the essence of Governor Eno’s message is simple but profound: Presence is the first act of leadership. Not as a display of power, but as a sign of service.
“In ministry, and in governance, you cannot lead from the shadows,” he writes. “Leadership demands visibility, engagement, and unity. Especially in an era of deep public skepticism, showing up isn’t just important, it’s imperative.”
Governor Eno’s push for a more visible leadership may be bold, even unorthodox, but it resonates with a truth both timeless and timely: governance begins with being there and not just in title, but in truth.