Governor Umo Eno Dumps PDP for APC After Months of Consultation — Says It’s a “Progressive Move” for Akwa Ibom

 

In a significant political shift that has sparked national attention, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement was made on Friday, June 6, 2025, during a press briefing held at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.

This move has not only stirred political discussions in Akwa Ibom but has also reshaped the national political landscape, especially as Nigeria continues to witness realignments ahead of the next general election.

A Carefully Considered Decision: “Three Months of Wide Consultation”

Governor Eno emphasized that his decision to leave the PDP—a party under which he rose to prominence and won his gubernatorial seat—was not made hastily. According to him, the move came after "three months of wide consultation" with key political stakeholders, community leaders, and other important figures across Akwa Ibom State.

“After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC,” he stated.

This quote highlights the seriousness with which the governor approached the decision. He noted that the interest of the people of Akwa Ibom was central to his choice, underlining his commitment to governance and development over political loyalty.

A “Progressive Move” to Align Akwa Ibom with the Federal Government

In his speech, Governor Eno made it clear that the decision to join the APC was strategic and based on the desire to align Akwa Ibom with the federal government under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The governor expressed admiration for the leadership style of President Tinubu, describing the shift as a “progressive move.”

“We’re joining the APC today in the state interest and because of our critical admiration and respect for President Tinubu and to provide the needed support for Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.”

This statement sheds light on the broader political calculations behind the defection. Aligning with the ruling party at the federal level often results in greater collaboration and access to federal resources. This move also signals an attempt to close political gaps between the state and national leadership, potentially accelerating development projects and increasing federal presence in Akwa Ibom.

Not a Defection from Weakness, But from Strength

Governor Eno was keen to dispel any notion that he was jumping ship out of desperation or political isolation. He firmly stated that the decision to join the APC was made “from the position of strength and alive”, not weakness.

“We are not joining the APC from the position of weakness but from the position of strength and alive. We are joining the APC out of a need to align our state with the center.”

This is a strong political message not just to his supporters but also to his critics. The governor wants it known that this move is not a retreat, but an advance—a calculated political step aimed at improving Akwa Ibom’s strategic position within Nigeria’s power structure.

Governor Eno Thanks PDP, But Looks to the Future

Despite his defection, Governor Umo Eno did not fail to acknowledge the role of the PDP in his political journey. He expressed gratitude to the party for its support and for the platform it provided him to become governor.

“We thank the PDP for their support since the beginning of this administration but it’s time for a progressive move,” he said.

By thanking the PDP while announcing his departure, the governor is trying to maintain political civility and avoid unnecessary tensions. This tone may help him preserve relationships with PDP members who may still serve in his administration or remain influential in the state.

Political Heavyweights Attend the Defection Event

The defection ceremony was not a quiet affair. In fact, it became a significant political rally, attended by several influential APC governors and top party leaders from across Nigeria.

Among the dignitaries present were:

• Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum

• Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Governor of Lagos State

• Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State

• Sheriff Oborevwori, Governor of Delta State

• Francis Nwifuru, Governor of Ebonyi State

• Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Governor of Ondo State

• Bassey Otu, Governor of Cross River State

The presence of these governors at the defection event is a strong indicator of the APC’s full support for Governor Eno’s transition. It also sends a clear message that the party sees Akwa Ibom as a new strategic base in the South-South region.

What This Means for Akwa Ibom Politics

Akwa Ibom has historically been a PDP stronghold. Governor Umo Eno’s defection could have far-reaching implications, not just for party politics in the state but also for governance and federal-state relations. His move is likely to attract more politicians to the APC, especially those seeking better alignment with the federal government.

For the PDP, this defection is a significant blow. Losing a sitting governor to the opposition—especially the ruling party—signals internal weaknesses and could embolden more defections in the coming months.

Political analysts believe this move will strengthen the APC’s foothold in the South-South, a region where the party has traditionally struggled to gain dominance.

Will Governance Change for Akwa Ibom Residents?

In his remarks, Governor Eno reassured Akwa Ibom residents that his administration remains fully committed to delivering the dividends of democracy, regardless of their party affiliation.

“Our administration remains committed to serving all citizens, regardless of party affiliation,” the governor promised.

This assurance is meant to calm fears that the shift in political allegiance could lead to biased or partisan governance. Governor Eno wants citizens to know that development, infrastructure, education, and healthcare will remain his top priorities.

Tinubu, Akpabio, and the Bigger Political Picture

By mentioning both President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Governor Eno has aligned himself with two of Nigeria’s most powerful political figures. This alignment positions him as a key ally in the South-South and gives Akwa Ibom a potential advantage in federal-level policymaking and resource allocation.

It’s also important to note that Godswill Akpabio, a former governor of Akwa Ibom, remains an influential political figure in the state. Eno’s decision to “provide needed support” to Akpabio could be seen as a unification of former political rivals or factions.

Final Thoughts: A Political Earthquake in Southern Nigeria

Governor Umo Eno’s defection from the PDP to the APC is a defining political moment in Akwa Ibom’s history. It could mark the beginning of a new political era for the state—one that brings closer ties to the federal government and potentially more federal support for infrastructure and economic growth.

For now, what remains to be seen is how the people of Akwa Ibom will respond. Will this be the beginning of mass defections? Will it strengthen or fracture the state’s political unity? One thing is certain: the political climate in Akwa Ibom, and indeed the entire South-South, has changed—and NaijaRush will be here to keep you updated every step of the way.