Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – In a major political shift, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move widely hailed by the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and other key stakeholders across the state. Represented by his wife, Uloma Akpabio, during the defection event in Uyo on Friday, Senator Akpabio congratulated Governor Eno, describing the decision as “bold” and “divinely inspired.”
“Because you are a child of God, God has opened your eyes to see the light,” Akpabio said. “Every development can only come from the APC.”
He praised the governor for prioritizing the people of Akwa Ibom and assured him of support despite expected political backlash, urging him to stay steadfast in faith.
“You shall fear no one. God will give you peace and protect your family. You will not regret joining the APC,” Akpabio added.
Widespread Support from State Executives and Lawmakers
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, speaking on behalf of commissioners and special advisers, confirmed their collective defection along with the governor. “We already said we have moved during the Executive Council meeting,” Uwah said. “This is your first eleven, and we are with you all the way.”
The Speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, Udeme Otong, also pledged the assembly’s loyalty to Governor Eno, affirming support for his developmental agenda and vision for the state over the next six years. Despite this wave of solidarity, resignation rumors surrounded three commissioners, with only Ini Ememobong of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport officially confirming his exit at press time.
National Assembly, Local Government, and Party Leaders Back Eno
The defection also drew support from the Akwa Ibom National Assembly Caucus, led by Senator Ekong Sampson, and the State ALGON Chairman, Uwemedimo Udo, who declared the unanimous support of all local government chairmen. “In other places they fight local government autonomy, but here you support it,” Udo stated. “We are moving with you to the APC.” Several current and former National Assembly members, including Senators Effiong Bob, Emmanuel Ibokessien, Aniekan Bassey, and Ita Enang, joined top political figures such as Chief Don Etiebet and Minister of Petroleum (State) Ekperikpo Ekpo, at the event to show unity.
Implications
Governor Eno’s defection marks a significant realignment in Akwa Ibom politics and is expected to influence both state and regional dynamics ahead of upcoming elections. The scale of support shown at the defection ceremony suggests the APC may be poised for broader consolidation in the state.
