Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Eno, has revealed he was mocked for his albinism, during the 2023 gubernatorial campaign in the state.
Albinism is an inherited genetic condition which results in a lack of melanin pigmentation in the skin, hair, and eyes, often causing pale skin colouring which causes significant vision problems.
Speaking in a video shared on X, Eno, while honouring children living with the condition, disclosed that people told him they do not want him because of his 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.”
The governor added that people with albinism are often stigmatised and denied 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 shared 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 wrote.
“That’s why whenever I see anyone with this skin condition, I make it a point to honour and recognise them.”
