Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has reportedly given his commissioners and political appointees a stark choice — follow him to the All Progressives Congress (APC) or step down from his administration.
The directive was said to have been delivered during a State Executive Council meeting, where Governor Eno confirmed his plans to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to reports by Vanguard, insiders at the meeting revealed that Eno was unapologetic about his decision, declaring that no member of the cabinet should be surprised by his move.
“Anybody who claims he is not aware of my intention to leave the PDP is still living in the 18th century,” the governor was quoted as saying.
Governor Eno cited his admiration for President Bola Tinubu’s leadership as the primary reason for his defection, expressing a desire to work more closely with the Federal Government.
He firmly warned his appointees that joining him in his new political direction was “non-negotiable.” Only elected officials — such as state legislators and local government chairmen — are exempt from the ultimatum.
The governor also made it clear that he intends to maintain control over the PDP’s state structure even after leaving the party and cautioned cabinet members against using the platform to oppose him politically.