Akwa Ibom Governor, Umo Eno Defects From PDP To APC

In a political twist that has sent ripples across the South-South region, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Umo Eno, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection ceremony, held on Friday at the Banquet Hall of the Akwa Ibom Government House in Uyo, was a calculated, high-profile event that symbolized a realignment of political allegiances at both the state and national levels.

Present at the ceremony were notable APC figures including the Chairman of the APC Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, and Cross River State Governor, Prince Bassey Otu. Other party chieftains from across the country were expected but attendance was reportedly scaled down due to the ongoing Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

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In his address, Governor Eno made it clear that his defection was not out of political desperation but a strategic move. “We’re not joining the APC from a position of weakness, but from a position of strength,” he said. “We’re bringing value to Akwa Ibom State. We’ve come into the APC with a ministry of reconciliation.” His remarks highlighted a calculated desire to synchronize Akwa Ibom’s political direction with that of the federal government, currently controlled by the APC.

However, the move has caused visible cracks within the PDP structure in the state. While some members see Eno’s switch as inevitable given the shifting political climate in Nigeria, others have publicly opposed it. One of the loudest dissenting voices is that of Emmanuel Enoidem, a former National Legal Adviser of the PDP and one of Eno’s strongest allies during his 2023 gubernatorial campaign.

Enoidem emphasized that the PDP remains unshaken in Akwa Ibom and vowed that the party would present viable candidates in the 2027 elections. “The party is not about one individual. PDP remains strong, and we will contest and win elections in 2027,” he insisted. His comments reflect growing tension within the political class in the state, with observers predicting further defections and reshuffling in the coming weeks.

The political atmosphere around the Government House was tense on Friday, with heavy security presence. Operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) and police officers were strategically stationed to manage any potential disruptions during the event. The defection ceremony, though scaled-down, proceeded with an air of political finality, confirming what had been rumored for weeks within inner political circles.

Reports also indicate that Governor Eno is expected to speak with a select group of journalists at 2:00 p.m., where he will further elaborate on his reasons for joining the APC and the road ahead for his administration under a new party platform.

Political analysts believe Eno’s decision was driven by both federal alignment incentives and a broader strategic calculus aimed at securing developmental benefits for Akwa Ibom State. With President Bola Tinubu’s administration prioritizing cooperation with state governments, especially those led by APC members, Eno’s move may place the state in a more favorable position to attract federal attention and funding.

Yet, the internal political cost is evident. The PDP has long maintained a stronghold in Akwa Ibom, dominating state politics since the return to democracy in 1999. Eno’s departure not only threatens that legacy but also risks fragmenting the political base that delivered his electoral victory just two years ago.

As Nigeria continues to witness a pattern of high-profile defections, Governor Eno’s switch could serve as a catalyst for similar moves in other PDP-dominated states. What remains to be seen is whether his defection will unite or divide Akwa Ibom further, and how this shift will affect service delivery and governance in the long term.

In the immediate term, all eyes remain on Uyo. Governor Eno has triggered a major political realignment. Whether this move strengthens his grip on the state or fuels opposition forces within and outside his administration will be determined in the months to come.