IMOKE RETURNS QUIETLY

After three months absence from the country, Governor Liyel Imoke of Cross River State returned home quietly last night.

The governor arrived the international wing of the Murtala Muhammed Airport, Ikeja at about 6.50 pm, sources said.

He wore a light brown suit.

He was met at the airport by only his look-alike younger brother.

They both walked through the departure hall towards the diplomatic car park where a black Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) was waiting to take them away.

Officials of the state government were largely unaware of his return.

Most of them expressed shock when asked to confirm that the governor was back.

It was gathered that the governor later left for Abuja.

News of his return sparked joy among the state’s political elite, particularly political appointees.

He is expected in Calabar in the next few days.

Soon after the governor commenced what he called a vacation, rumour of his death swept through the state and the rest of the country, prompting him to take to Facebook to deny the rumour.

In one post, he said: ”Gratitude for the concern, kind words and messages. I am well, very well and in good health and spirit.

“One can’t continuously cheat nature, especially at the punishing pace we do. It’s probably been eight to ten years or more without a break or a decent vacation.

“I truly needed to take this time off. Thankfully, we are unified in our approach to governance. So, there’s continuity, which is important. Best regards.’’

When our correspondent visited the governor’s private residence in Abuja, there were signposts that he had indeed arrived Abuja.

There was heavy security presence in and around the house.

We were, however, not allowed inside.

Source: The Nation