Governor Umo Eno Dumps PDP for APC with Deputy and Cabinet Members
A Major Political Shift in Akwa Ibom State
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant political shift in the South-South region.
The defection ceremony was held on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital. Eno was joined by his deputy, Akon Eyakenyi, along with members of the State Executive Council, federal and state legislators, and local government chairpersons.
Akpabio Welcomes Eno, Says Move Reflects Commitment to the People
Senate President Reacts Warmly to Defection
Reacting to the development, Senate President Godswill Akpabio praised Governor Eno’s decision, calling it a clear demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of the people of Akwa Ibom.
In a Facebook post on Friday, Akpabio wrote:
“It is with utmost joy that I received our governor, Pastor Umo Eno; his deputy, Akon Eyakenyi; APC governors led by the forum chairman, Hope Uzodimma; and other party stakeholders at my residence in Uyo, after the historic defection of my brother, Governor Eno.
Members of the State Executive Council, federal and state lawmakers, and council chairmen have also joined the progressives’ family.
Thank you, Mr Governor, for having the interest of our people at heart. Congratulations, and welcome to the fold.”
Commissioner Ini Ememobong Resigns in Protest
Says He Won’t Follow Governor to APC
In a related development, Ini Ememobong, the Commissioner for Information and Special Duties, has resigned from his position, citing his refusal to defect to the APC.
Taking to Facebook on Friday, Ememobong stated:
“Behold another bend. Today, I have tendered my resignation to the governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.
While I cannot question or fault the governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.”
Ememobong’s resignation highlights internal rifts that could shape Akwa Ibom’s political dynamics in the months leading to the next election cycle.
What This Means for Akwa Ibom Politics
Governor Eno’s defection alongside key government figures may bolster the APC’s influence in Akwa Ibom, a state long considered a PDP stronghold. However, the move also raises questions about party loyalty, grassroots support, and potential political realignments in Nigeria’s evolving democratic landscape.
