In a surprising political twist, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement, which comes amid continued political realignments across Nigeria, marks a significant shift in the state's political landscape.
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Speaking at a press conference in Uyo, the governor defended his decision by invoking biblical references, saying, “As the children of Issachar, we must interpret and flow with the times.” He added that after months of wide consultations with stakeholders and party leaders, the decision to switch parties was both strategic and timely.
According to a Vanguard report, Governor Eno submitted a formal resignation letter to his PDP ward chairman and simultaneously informed the state and national party leaders. While expressing gratitude to the PDP for what he described as “years of political support,” he emphasized that his move was not out of weakness but from a position of strength.
Governor Eno said, “What Akwa Ibom people want is good governance, not just party names. If a plane develops a fault before takeoff, you find another that can fly. That’s what I’ve done.”
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His defection has stirred both praise and backlash. The APC governors welcomed him with open arms, assuring him of full support. On the other hand, PDP officials have described his defection as a betrayal of the people's mandate and warned that 2027 would be about national interest, not individual ambitions.
The political shockwave was further amplified when his trusted ally and Commissioner for Special Duties, Ini Ememobong, resigned, signaling potential ripples within the state cabinet. Governor Eno had warned his appointees to either follow him to APC or resign.
In his defection speech, Eno reiterated that his values and principles remain unchanged, stating, “I have changed party affiliation, but not my moral fibre. I’ll still work with all for the good of Akwa Ibom, regardless of party lines.”
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He also declared support for President Tinubu’s second term, aligning his defection with national development priorities. “This is not about politics—it’s about governance. We’re here to build and contribute to reforms already in motion,” Eno said.
With the 2027 general election on the horizon, Governor Umo Eno’s political shift is expected to reshape the power dynamics in the South-South region.
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