The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the All Progressives Congress (APC).
He made this announcement on Friday at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo. Present with him were governors from Lagos, Ogun, Delta, Edo, Ebonyi, and Cross River states. Also in attendance was the Chairman of the APC Governors Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma.
“Earlier this morning I submitted my letter of resignation from the PDP to the ward chairperson. Same copy has been sent to the state and national chairpersons of the party,” Eno said.
This move ends weeks of speculation about his political future. Observers had raised concerns due to the governor’s recent remarks and actions that hinted at a change in allegiance.
PDP’s 26-Year Reign Ends in Akwa Ibom
Governor Eno’s defection ends the PDP’s 26-year hold on power in Akwa Ibom State. He is the first sitting governor in the state to make such a move while still in office.
Before defecting, the governor gave his cabinet members a clear choice. He told them to either join him in the APC or resign from their positions.
“I have made my decision. If you cannot follow me to the APC, you are free to resign,” he reportedly said during a recent executive meeting.
Shortly after the announcement, Governor Eno proceeded to his Obotim Ward in Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, where he completed his formal registration as an APC member.
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Top Commissioners Resign Over Eno’s Defection
Governor Eno’s directive has already caused a shake-up in his cabinet. Three commissioners have resigned in response to his defection. These include:
- Ini Ememobong – Commissioner for Information, Strategy, and Special Duties
- Emem Almond Bob – Commissioner for Finance
- Engr. Eno Ibanga – Commissioner for Works
Most notably, Ini Ememobong took to Facebook to share his decision. He said he could not continue with the governor on the new political path.
“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,” he wrote.
“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn.”
Lawmakers Split Over Political Shift
The political impact of Eno’s defection is also being felt in the state House of Assembly. Out of 26 lawmakers, 15 have refused to defect with the governor. Only 11 members have agreed to join him in the APC.
This division indicates a possible internal crisis in the state legislature and may lead to tension as the political climate shifts.
“My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles,” Ememobong added, “and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.”
Despite resigning, Ememobong praised the governor and the former governor, Udom Emmanuel, for their trust and mentorship.
“I will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO,” he stated.
He concluded by thanking both Umo Eno and Udom Emmanuel for giving him opportunities in public service.
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