Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom has promised to run a transparent and responsible government devoid of corruption in the state.

Emmanuel made promise on Friday in his inaugural speech after being sworn-in as the governor by the State Acting Chief Judge, Justice Stephen Okon.

He said that as the chief executive of the state, he would run an administration founded on peace, unity and justice.

“I will ensure accountability and transparency in government by fighting corruption in all facets of our administration,” he said.

The governor assured that he would pursue the task of rural development and industrialisation with vigour.

He further promised that his government would transform the state by liaising with the private sector through Public Private Partnership (PPP).

“My administration will adhere to the principle of the Rule of Law, where justice and fair play will prevail, respect for fundamental human rights.

“We will promote trade, culture and tourism with other states in the country,” Emmanuel said.

The governor assured the people that he would attract Federal Government's presence to the state through harmonious working relationship with the centre.

He pleaded with his political opponents to forget about electioneering and come together to build the state.

The governor said that he would lead as a servant and not a master, adding that he would welcome new ideas to move the state forward.

Emmanuel, who is the fourth democratically-elected governor of the state, renamed the Ibom International Stadium after the outgoing governor as Godswill Akpabio International Stadium.

The acting chief judge had earlier sworn-in Mr Moses Ekpo, as the Deputy Governor of the state.

Earlier, in his farewell remarks, Akpabio urged the people of the state to give maximum support to the new governor.

Akpabio apologised to all those he offended in the cause of his official duty, and appealed for unity in the state. (NAN)

•Udom Gabriel Emmanuel signing the Oath Register after taking the Oath of Office as Governor, Akwa Ibom State.