In a significant political shift, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement was made on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, following what the governor described as “three months of wide consultation” with stakeholders across the state.
Governor Eno, who expressed gratitude to the PDP for supporting his leadership, said the time had come for him to make what he termed a “progressive move.” He cited his admiration for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the need for Akwa Ibom to align with the federal government in order to secure continued development and benefits.
“After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC,” he declared. “We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness but from a position of strength and purpose.”
Eno added that the decision was also aimed at bolstering support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a prominent son of the state, and ensuring stronger collaboration between Akwa Ibom and the federal government.
He reassured residents of the state that his commitment to service remained firm and would transcend party lines.
Present at the event were several APC stalwarts and governors, including the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma; Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Ogun’s Dapo Abiodun; Delta’s Sheriff Oborevwori; Ebonyi’s Francis Nwifuru; Ondo’s Lucky Aiyedatiwa; and Cross River’s Bassey Otu, among others.
Governor Eno’s defection marks a major political realignment in Akwa Ibom and could have far-reaching implications for both the state and national political landscape ahead of future elections.
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