Responsibilities of the office
Assigned state responsibilities
Carries out state government business assigned by the governor. This can include administration of a department, programme coordination and representing the governor at official engagements.
Executive coordination
Participates with the governor and commissioners in meetings to consider policy, coordinate executive work and advise the governor.
Acting governor
Performs the governor�s functions when the constitutional procedure for acting governorship applies, including a formal written transfer during vacation or inability to discharge duties. The Constitution also provides a procedure involving the House of Assembly if a required declaration is not transmitted within 21 days.
Succession
Assumes the office of governor when it becomes vacant in the circumstances set out by the Constitution, including death, resignation or removal.
Limits of the office
The deputy is not a separate head of the state executive. Powers and assignments remain subject to the Constitution, legislation and oversight by the appropriate institutions.
About Akon Eyakenyi
Akon Eyakenyi is Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, serving with Governor Umo Eno. She became the state's first elected female deputy governor.
Education and public service
Eyakenyi trained as an educator and worked as a teacher and education officer before entering political office. Her education includes bachelor's, master's and doctoral qualifications in education. She previously served as a state commissioner, Minister of Lands, Housing and Urban Development from 2014 to 2015, and Senator for Akwa Ibom South from 2019 to 2023.
Public role
Her office assists the governor with assigned state business and executive coordination. Her earlier ministerial and Senate positions are part of her background, rather than powers she retains as deputy governor.
Sources and verification
Official background and verification 1
