Politicians need to document experiences – Eno says at Senator Effiong’s book launch

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on Saturday called on politicians to document their political experiences, praising Distinguished Senator Effiong Dickson Bob for doing so in his newly launched book, The Burden of Legislators in Nigeria. The book launch was held at the NAF Conference Centre, Abuja.

Governor Eno described Senator Bob as a “Political Guarantor” and a model public servant, whose decades-long career reflects dedication to grassroots politics and national service. He stressed that documenting such experiences is essential for preserving institutional memory and guiding future lawmakers.

The high-profile event drew political leaders and policymakers from across Nigeria. Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio and Governor Eno served as Special Guests of Honour, while former Senate President Senator David Mark chaired the occasion. Also in attendance were the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, members of the National and State Assemblies, Minister of Petroleum (Gas) Obongemem Ekoerikpe Ekpo, Deputy Governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria Paul Usoro, and other senior officials.

Speaking on behalf of the Government and people of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Eno congratulated Senator Bob and highlighted their shared roots in Uyo Senatorial District. “Even though I am Governor of the whole of Akwa Ibom State, I am, first and foremost, from Uyo Senatorial District,” he said, underscoring the personal and political bond he shares with the former lawmaker.

Governor Eno traced Senator Bob’s illustrious political journey, from his early role as Councillor for Works and Transport in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area to his election into the State House of Assembly during the Third Republic, where he became Deputy Speaker. He later served as Chairman of Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, was appointed Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice at the start of the Fourth Republic, and went on to represent Akwa Ibom North East (Uyo Senatorial District) as a two-term Senator. Senator Bob also chaired the Governing Council of the University of Benin.

The governor noted that Senator Bob’s book draws from this wealth of experience to provide insights into the complexities of legislative representation, public expectations, alliance-building, and the balancing of interests required for effective lawmaking. He described it as a valuable resource for students of Political Science and Public Policy and announced the state government’s plan to purchase copies for tertiary institutions across Akwa Ibom.

Governor Eno also acknowledged Senator Bob’s ongoing support for his administration, offering candid counsel as the government advances the ARISE Agenda and expands development across the state.

In his remarks, Senator Effiong Bob thanked guests for attending and explained that the book was inspired by his desire to document the realities, responsibilities, and challenges of legislative service in Nigeria. The vote of thanks was delivered by Rt. Hon. Otobong Bob, who celebrated his father’s enduring legacy as a public servant and mentor.