• 07 Jun, 2025
• FAITH MIMDOO KEGH
• No comment

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom Officially Joins APC, Citing National Interest and Tinubu’s Leadership.

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Pa

rty (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), completing a transition he had hinted at for months. Alongside him, 31 local government chairpersons, members of the State Executive Council, state and federal lawmakers also moved to the APC. This marks one of the most significant political realignments in recent state politics.

Though three commissioners resigned in protest to remain in the PDP, the majority of Eno’s cabinet and political allies followed him to the ruling party, praising his leadership and vision. The resignations came from loyalists of former governor Udom Emmanuel.

Governor Eno explained that his defection was based on what he termed “enlightened state interest” — aligning Akwa Ibom with the federal government to increase federal presence and developmental support. He emphasized that while his party affiliation has changed, his personal values and commitment to inclusive governance remain the same.

He praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, particularly his handling of Nigeria’s economic challenges, including the controversial removal of petrol subsidies. Eno stated that this move has freed up funds for developmental projects and has had a positive impact on state-level governance. He described Tinubu as a leader with courage and foresight, recalling admiration for him from his time as Lagos State governor.

Eno pledged to continue governing in a bipartisan and inclusive manner, stating:

   Akwa Ibom will serve as a model for collaborative, non-partisan governance.

The defection was celebrated in Uyo, with Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma leading a delegation of APC governors to receive Eno and his supporters. Uzodimma called the event “a movement” rather than a defection and described it as a strategic realignment of Akwa Ibom with national politics.

Speaking on behalf of the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, his wife, Mrs. Ekaette Akpabio, commended Eno’s bold decision and assured him of continued support. The symbolic presentation of the APC broom to Governor Eno marked the formal welcome.

APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the development as a significant boost for the party and for Akwa Ibom. He assured the governor of the party’s support and readiness to work closely with him to ensure development and a smooth transition.

Despite the general support, a few notable figures chose to remain with the PDP. Among them were three commissioners and some lawmakers, including Sunday Udofot Johnny. One of the resigning commissioners, Ini Ememobong, stated his decision was based on principles and his longstanding disagreement with the APC platform, though he expressed respect for Governor Eno.

This shift mirrors a similar political transition in Delta State in April, when the governor and several top officials also moved to the APC.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, responding to the Delta defections earlier, praised the APC’s resilience and inclusive approach, crediting its survival and growth to internal dialogue and unity.

Governor Eno’s defection and the mass movement of key Akwa Ibom political leaders into the APC signify a major shift in the political landscape of the state and may have long-term implications for the balance of power both locally and nationally.

FAITH MIMDOO KEGH

Manager – Oversees the daily operations, editorial planning, and strategic direction of the platform. A graduate with a solid academic foundation in media and communication, Faith brings a wealth of experience to the TokinPoint.

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