Governor Umo Eno’s Defection Sparks Political Realignments as APC Gains Momentum

In a dramatic political shift that could reshape the landscape of Nigeria’s opposition politics, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The move, which has drawn sharp attention nationwide, comes less than two months after Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori made a similar leap, positioning the APC with 23 governors out of Nigeria’s 36 states.

Governor Eno’s defection was publicly confirmed during a high-profile declaration ceremony at the Government House in Uyo. The event was marked by the presence of national figures, including representatives of President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and nine APC governors led by Hope Uzodimma of Imo State.

Eno declared, “We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness but from a position of strength. We are building back a party that was once torn apart, we are supporting President Tinubu.” He emphasized that his decision was driven by a strategic need to align Akwa Ibom with the center for more effective governance and national integration.

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Governor Eno likened his defection to boarding a functional aircraft over one that’s grounded by faults—a metaphor alluding to his belief that the PDP no longer represents a viable political platform for him. “Board the flight that is ready to take you to your destination,” he told stakeholders during an earlier event that hinted at his looming departure from the PDP.

The governor also ordered all cabinet members and appointees to either defect with him or resign. While the majority complied, Commissioner for Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port, Ini Ememobong, chose to resign, citing personal principles and ideological incompatibility with the APC.

Ememobong wrote in his resignation, “My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform.” Despite this, he maintained respect for Governor Eno, reaffirming their personal bond even outside government circles.

The governor’s switch was greeted with enthusiasm by APC leaders, with Senate President Akpabio lauding his courage. Represented by his wife, Unoma Akpabio, at the ceremony, Akpabio advised Eno to brace for criticism, asserting that the bold move would ultimately benefit the people of Akwa Ibom. “Don’t fear them,” she said. “When the Senate President made this same move in 2019, they called him all kinds of names, but today we are reaping the rewards.”

Defection Dominoes: Who’s Next to Join the APC?

Governor Eno’s defection may just be the tip of the iceberg as speculation intensifies over possible exits by other PDP governors. Governors Peter Mbah (Enugu), Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau), Ahmadu Fintiri (Adamawa), and suspended Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara are all reportedly under scrutiny.

Fintiri’s relationship with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has cooled, and his recent meeting with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu suggests behind-the-scenes maneuvers. Atiku’s meeting with Fintiri’s rival, Aishatu Binani, adds further intrigue to the political chessboard in Adamawa.

Governor Fubara, whose administration has been marred by conflict and whose recent meetings with President Tinubu have raised eyebrows, is also rumored to be leaning towards the APC. The President had, in March 2025, suspended Fubara and declared emergency rule in Rivers State—an extraordinary move that some believe may be a political reset in the works.

Adding to the intrigue, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke also stirred speculation after visiting the President in Lagos, though no formal declaration of defection has been made.

National Implications and Presidential Reactions

At a national summit held on May 22, 2025, President Tinubu openly welcomed defections to the APC, stressing that these political moves reflect Nigeria’s democratic freedoms rather than a drift toward a one-party state. “Welcome to the progressives. Sweep them clean,” he said, affirming his satisfaction with the ongoing influx of opposition figures.

This strategic political consolidation comes ahead of the 2027 general elections and may serve to fortify APC’s dominance while weakening the PDP’s national standing. With Tinubu emphasizing development and unity, the party hopes to woo even more opposition members, especially those disgruntled with internal party rifts.

The Local and National Fallout

The PDP in Akwa Ibom has maintained a stoic silence following Eno’s exit, with State Chairman Elder Aniekan Akpan stating, “We don’t have anything to react to now, but we will definitely react.” This non-committal stance reflects a party still reeling from the impact of the governor’s unexpected departure.

Meanwhile, the APC has warmly received Eno, touting his arrival as a valuable boost for the party’s influence in the South-South. In a statement, APC National Publicity Secretary Felix Morka said the defection “adds strength not only to our party but also to the good people of Akwa Ibom.”

Eno’s official registration as an APC member at Obotim Ward in Nsit Ubium completed the defection process. He was later hosted by Senate President Akpabio and other APC leaders in a symbolic welcome that marks a new chapter in Akwa Ibom politics.

As Nigeria edges closer to another election cycle, these defections are more than mere political maneuvers—they are seismic shifts redefining party loyalties and future power structures. The stage is set, and more realignments appear imminent.