How i was ridiculed for being an Albino – Gov Umo Eno

Akwa Ibom governor Umo Eno has opened up about the ridicule and rejection he faced over his albinism during the 2023 gubernatorial campaign.

In a video shared on X, Eno recounted how opponents used his skin condition as a political weapon, recalling that some critics openly said they did not want an albino governor. His wife, however, publicly defended him, calling him her “golden boy.”

“Albinos are a golden people, and they have a golden governor,” Eno said, stressing that people with albinism have long been stigmatised, denied opportunities, and subjected to body shaming.

He reflected on his own childhood struggles, saying, “Growing up with albinism wasn’t easy; I faced bullying, body shaming, and rejection. But today, by God’s grace, I stand proudly. That’s why whenever I see anyone with this skin condition, I make it a point to honour and recognise them.”

The governor also pledged to continue recognising children living with albinism, adding, “They will not give us a chance in the past. They will call us names. They will not let us come to the public. But today, God has brought us out. So anywhere I see one of them, I must recognise them.”