Umo Eno: I Was Ridiculed For My Albinism During Governorship Campaign

(AFRICAN EXAMINER) – Umo Eno, governor of Akwa Ibom, says he was ridiculed and rejected due to his albinism in the 2023 gubernatorial campaign. 

Eno, in a video he uploaded on X, disclosed how the condition of his skin was used as a political tool against him on the campaign trail.

He also appreciated children living with the condition.

“Albinos are a golden people, and they have a golden governor,” he said.

“When we started this campaign, some people who did not have what to say they said they did not want an albino governor. Do you remember?

“Then my dear wife came out and said to them, you may be an albino, but to me, you are my golden boy.”

The governor also lamented that people with albinism are often stigmatised and refused opportunities.

“They would not give us a chance in the past. They would body shame us. They would call us names. They would not let us come to the public,” he said.

“But today, God has brought us out. So anywhere I see one of any of them, I must recognise them.”

Eno also talked about what it was like growing up with the condition.

“Growing up with albinism wasn’t easy; I faced bullying, body shaming, and rejection. But today, by God’s grace, I stand proudly,” he writes.

“That’s why whenever I see anyone with this skin condition, I make it a point to honour and recognise them.”

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