The political landscape of Akwa Ibom State shifted dramatically on Friday as Governor Umo Eno officially announced his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement, made at the Government House in Uyo, comes after weeks of speculation and three months of strategic consultations with key political figures within and outside the state.
Addressing a gathering of supporters and political stakeholders, Governor Eno said his decision was the product of deliberate thought, not political opportunism. He emphasized that his defection was not an act of disloyalty to the PDP but a calculated step to ensure the state’s alignment with the center and enhance its developmental prospects under the current federal administration.
“For some time now, the political space in Akwa Ibom has been buzzing with speculation about my political future. I took the time to consult widely because I owe it to the people and the institutions that helped me rise. Today, I make this move with a clear conscience and a firm resolve,” Eno said.
He confirmed that he had formally resigned from the PDP, with letters submitted to his ward chairman and copied to both the state and national leadership of the party. While expressing appreciation to the PDP for their platform and support over the past two years, Eno remarked that governance must sometimes rise above party boundaries.
“This is not a decision born out of weakness or disillusionment. We are joining the APC from a place of strength, with our vision intact and our commitment to the people unwavering,” the governor stated.
Governor Eno also cited his admiration for President Bola Tinubu as a motivating factor behind his political realignment. He described the president as a “visionary leader whose commitment to national development deserves the backing of forward-thinking leaders across the country.” He added that the move would also position Akwa Ibom to benefit more fully from federal initiatives, resources, and political goodwill.
“I believe that to effectively drive growth and deliver lasting progress to our people, Akwa Ibom must build stronger ties with the central government. This alignment is strategic, not partisan,” he said.
Eno’s announcement was witnessed by several prominent APC leaders, including the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma. Other governors present were Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo, and Bassey Otu of Cross River. Their presence underscored the significance of Eno’s defection and the APC’s growing influence in the South-South region.
Eno also made reference to his political relationship with Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who has long been a major figure in Akwa Ibom politics. The governor noted that his decision to join the APC would bolster the state’s partnership with national leadership and create synergy for accelerated development.
“My final consultation concluded last night in a meeting with some of the most respected voices in our state’s political history. I wanted to be sure that I was not making this move in isolation. I believe no one has consulted as widely as I have before changing parties in this state,” Eno added.
He concluded by assuring the people of Akwa Ibom that his administration remains committed to the state’s development agenda and that his political shift will not derail the projects and policies already in motion.
“Party affiliations may change, but my duty to the people remains constant. We will continue to work, deliver, and raise the standard of leadership,” he affirmed.
