How I Was Mocked For My Albinism During Campaigns, Akwa-Ibom Gov Narrates Ordeal

How I Was Mocked For My Albinism During Campaigns, Akwa-Ibom Gov Narrates Ordeal

  • The Akwa-Ibom Governor, Umo Eno, has detailed how he faced public rejection and mockery due to albinism during the 2023 gubernatorial campaigns
  • Governor Eno narrates what he faced growing up with the skin condition, and how people living with albinism get less recognition in society
  • Governor Eno recounts how his beloved wife helped him get through public ridicule during the build-up to the 2023 gubernatorial election

Uyo, Akwa Ibom - The executive governor of Akwa Ibom state, Umo Eno, has described how he faced public rejection and mockery because of his albinism while campaigning for the 2023 gubernatorial seat.

Governor Umu Eno of Akwa-Ibom state recounts his journey growing up with albinism and shares how his skin condition was weaponised against him during the 2023 governorship campaigns.
Governor Umo Eno describes how he faced public mockery because of his albinism while campaigning for the 2023 gubernatorial seat. Photo credit - @_PastorUmoEno/ X, Sodiq Adelakun/Getty images
Source: UGC

Albinism is a rare genetic condition causing little to no melanin production, affecting skin, hair, and eye colour. It leads to sensitivity to sunlight and vision problems. People with albinism may need sun protection and specialised eye care.

Governor Eno made the statement in a video shared on his official X.com page in the early hours of Friday, August 22.

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The governor narrated how his skin condition was seen as an opportunity to discredit him before the elections by political figures campaigning against him.

According to the video, the governor was seen honouring children and adults living with the skin condition.

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

The governor explained how people living with the skin condition are often stigmatised and denied opportunities 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.

Eno shares his journey with albinism

In the caption accompanying the video, Eno shared what it was like growing up with albinism.

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“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 Umu Eno of Akwa-Ibom state speaks on his journey growing up with albinism and shares how his skin condition was weaponised against him during the 2023 governorship campaigns.
Governor Umu Eno of Akwa-Ibom state details his experience with albinism and how his skin condition was weaponised against him during the 2023 governorship campaigns. Photo credit - @_PastorUmoEno
Source: Twitter

Lady with albinism shows off melanin sister

Ayomide Matilda, a Nigerian lady with albinism, has melted hearts on social media with her touching tribute to her sister. She shared a video on TikTok, which confirmed the strong bond between the two sisters and emphasised the importance of family support.

The lady, who posts on TikTok under the handle @albinowithaspark, expressed her gratitude to her sister for being a pillar of strength in her life.

The video captured the two sisters together and was accompanied by a heartfelt message, in which the lady acknowledged the impact her sister had on her life.

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Netizens react to photos of couple with three albino kids

A Nigerian family has garnered massive attention on TikTok after their photos surfaced on the platform. A woman identified as @goldenbjoel on TikTok shared a photo that revealed that her three children suffered from albinism.

The children were sighted in the photos, radiating and glowing in their unique skin colour as they posed with their parents.

Proofreading by James Ojo, copy editor at Legit.ng.

Source: Legit.ng

Authors:
Abdul-Hafeez Fadehan avatar

Abdul-Hafeez Fadehan (Editorial Assistant) Abdul-Hafeez Fadehan is a Legit.ng journalist with over a year of experience writing for Punch Newspaper. He received his BSc in Criminology and Security Studies from FUOYE. His background in media communications and criminology, with practical experience in research, interviewing, and digital media, allows him to craft compelling narratives that drive positive change. Fadehan is an Editorial Assistant on Politics/CA Desk at Legit.ng. He is committed to ethical journalism, leveraging his skills to create a meaningful impact. Reach him at abdul-hafeez.fadehan@corp.legit.ng or 070622666732.

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