BREAKING: Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno Dumps PDP for APC, Cites Alignment with Tinubu’s Vision
In a major political shift, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing national interest, alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, and a desire to consolidate development gains for the state.
Governor Eno made the announcement on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital, during a well-attended ceremony that drew several prominent APC leaders, including governors and federal lawmakers.
Speaking at the event, the governor explained that the decision came after “three months of wide consultations” with critical stakeholders across the state and beyond. He noted that his move was guided by the need to position Akwa Ibom to benefit more directly from the developmental agenda of the federal government.
“I want to thank the PDP for the platform it provided me to serve our people. However, after careful consideration and statewide consultation, I have come to the conclusion that it is time for a progressive move,” Eno declared.
“We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness, but from a position of strength, unity, and vision. This is a strategic alignment aimed at ensuring Akwa Ibom State continues to access federal opportunities and support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He emphasized his admiration for President Tinubu’s leadership style and also pledged his support for the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, describing him as “a brother and worthy ambassador of Akwa Ibom at the national level.”
According to Governor Eno, his defection is not driven by personal interest, but by the collective aspirations of Akwa Ibom people to be fully integrated into the national political framework.
“Akwa Ibom must not be left behind. We must work hand in hand with the federal government to deliver dividends of democracy to our people. Our people deserve infrastructure, jobs, empowerment, and we must leverage every opportunity to achieve this,” he said.
He also assured that he would continue to govern the state with fairness, inclusivity, and dedication to service, regardless of party lines.
The defection event witnessed the presence of several APC governors and political heavyweights, including the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Bassey Otu (Cross River), among others.
Eno’s defection marks a significant political development in Akwa Ibom State and the South-South region, further tilting the balance of power in favour of the APC as the 2027 political realignments begin to take shape.
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