The governor of Akwa Ibom, Umo Eno, has revealed that he endured ridicule and rejection over his albinism during the 2023 gubernatorial campaign.
Albinism is a hereditary genetic condition that causes a deficiency of melanin in the skin, hair, and eyes, resulting in very light skin tone and often severe vision impairments.
In a video posted on X, the governor recounted how his condition was used as a political weapon against him during the campaign. He also took the opportunity to celebrate children living with albinism.
“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.”
Eno stressed that individuals with albinism have long faced stigma and discrimination.
“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.”
The governor also shared his personal struggles growing up.
“Growing up with albinism wasn’t easy; I faced bullying, body shaming, and rejection. But today, by God’s grace, I stand proudly,” he wrote.
“That’s why whenever I see anyone with this skin condition, I make it a point to honour and recognise them.”