In a major political shift, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reportedly instructed his commissioners and political appointees to either join him in defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC) or tender their resignations.
The directive was delivered during a State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting on Thursday, where Governor Eno confirmed his decision to part ways with the People’s Democratic Party (PDP).
Insiders at the meeting noted that the governor was unequivocal about his position, stressing that his defection had been in the works for some time:
“Anybody who claims he is not aware of my intention to leave the PDP is still living in the 18th century,” he said.
According to the governor, the move is rooted in his admiration for President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style. He emphasized a desire to foster stronger ties with the Federal Government.
Governor Eno also issued a pointed warning to members of his administration who might be reluctant to follow suit:
“Apart from elected officials like House of Assembly members and Local Government Chairmen, I have nothing to negotiate with you,” Eno declared.
“Let me tell you, anybody who believes that when I leave the PDP he will use the party structure to fight me is lying, because I will still control the PDP structure.”
The governor’s announcement marks a significant realignment in the state’s political landscape and could signal a broader wave of defections as the 2027 elections begin to take shape.
