The political landscape of Akwa Ibom State experienced a major shake-up on Friday as Governor Umo Eno officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement, made during a press briefing at the Government House in Uyo, comes after what the governor described as “three months of wide consultation” with key stakeholders across the state.
Governor Eno, who was elected on the platform of the PDP, expressed appreciation to the party for its support throughout his administration. However, he noted that it was time to make what he termed a “progressive move” in the interest of the state.
“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,” Eno declared.
Speaking further, the governor said his decision was motivated by a desire to align Akwa Ibom State with the federal government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in order to ensure the continued flow of benefits and federal presence in the state.
“We’re joining the APC today in the state interest and because of our critical admiration and respect for President Tinubu and to provide the needed support for Senate President, Godswill Akpabio,” he said.
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He was quick to clarify that his move was not born out of desperation or political pressure but rather from a place of strength and strategic intent.
“We are not joining the APC from the position of weakness but from the position of strength and alive. We are joining the APC out of a need to align our state with the center,” the governor added.
Despite the switch, Eno assured Akwa Ibom residents that his commitment to their welfare remains unwavering, stating that his service to the people transcends political affiliations.
Present at the declaration were several prominent figures within the APC chieftains, including the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun; Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta; Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi; Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo; and Governor Bassey Otu of CrossRiver, among others.
