Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has opened up about the discrimination and ridicule he endured due to his albinism while running for office in the 2023 gubernatorial election.
In a video shared on his official X.com handle in the early hours of Friday, August 22, the governor reflected on how his skin condition became a tool used by political opponents to undermine his candidacy.
He spoke while celebrating individuals living with albinism, both children and adults.
“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?” he asked. “Then my dear wife came out and said to them, you may be an albino, but to me, you are my golden boy.”
Albinism is a genetic condition characterized by little or no melanin production, often resulting in lighter skin, hair, and eye color, along with heightened sensitivity to sunlight and visual impairments.
Governor Eno highlighted the widespread stigma faced by people with albinism, noting that they are frequently excluded and marginalized in society. “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.
In the caption accompanying the video, the governor recounted his personal journey, describing the challenges he faced growing up with albinism. “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,” he wrote.
Governor Eno’s message aimed to inspire inclusivity and empower others living with albinism, underscoring his commitment to recognising their worth and humanity.
