Uyo, Akwa Ibom State — In a significant political development, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has formally announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing national interest and ideological alignment with the ruling party.
The announcement came during a press briefing in Uyo on Friday, where the governor expressed confidence in his decision after broad consultations across key stakeholders. “This move is a product of conviction, not compulsion,” he declared. “We are stepping into the APC not as political underdogs, but from a firm and informed position.”
Governor Eno emphasized that his alignment with the APC was in support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s economic reform efforts, which he praised as courageous and necessary for Nigeria’s development.
The move mirrors a growing pattern among South-South governors, coming barely six weeks after Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State also exited the PDP for the APC.
Hints of Governor Eno’s planned shift emerged in April, following his endorsement of President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign during the launch of a 65-kilometre road project in Nsit-Antai. Reports also surfaced two weeks ago indicating that he urged members of his cabinet to either join him in the APC or tender their resignations.
Born on April 24, 1964, in Ikot Ekpene Udo, Nsit Ubium Local Government Area, Governor Eno holds both a B.Sc. and Master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Uyo. Before his foray into politics, he enjoyed a successful career in banking and hospitality, and he is the founder of All Nations Christian Ministry International. He served previously as the state’s Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources.
Meanwhile, in response to the defection, Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Ini Ememobong, has stepped down from his position, stating that he would not be joining the APC due to personal convictions.
By Taiwo Olatinwo | June 6, 2025
