Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political shift in the South-South region.
Governor Eno announced his defection during a press conference held on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital, stating that his decision was made after “three months of wide consultation” with stakeholders across Akwa Ibom.
While expressing gratitude to the PDP for the platform and support given to him, the governor emphasized that his move to the APC was in the best 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 during his speech.
According to him, the decision was not driven by political survival, but by a strategic need to align Akwa Ibom with the federal government in order to attract more developmental benefits.
“We’re joining the APC today in the state’s 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.
“We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness but from a position of strength and life. We are joining the APC out of a need to align our state with the center,” Eno added.
The defection event was witnessed by several top-ranking APC figures, including the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma. Others present included Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru, Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, among others.
Governor Eno also assured Akwa Ibom citizens that his commitment to the people remains firm, irrespective of party affiliations.
“I will continue to serve you diligently and remain your governor. This move does not change my dedication to the welfare and progress of every Akwa Ibomite,” he said.
The governor’s defection is expected to reshape the political landscape of Akwa Ibom and potentially influence the balance of power ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Watch the full video of Governor Eno’s announcement below:
Click here to watch
