Senate President Godswill Akpabio on Thursday welcomed Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno into the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that meaningful development in Nigeria can only be achieved through the ruling party.
The event took place in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, during a high-profile political gathering that drew key stakeholders from the APC across the state and the nation.
The defection of Governor Eno, who was elected under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marks a significant political shift in the South-South state.
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Though there has been no formal public statement from Governor Eno confirming his defection, Akpabio’s remarks during the event and the presence of APC officials suggest that the move is either complete or imminent.
Speaking to party supporters and government officials at the gathering, Akpabio praised Eno for what he described as a wise political decision. He stated that the governor had realized that genuine development and access to federal support could best be achieved under the platform of the APC.
Akpabio emphasized the strategic importance of the state aligning with the federal government, noting that states in opposition to the central ruling party often face challenges in attracting infrastructural and economic development.
He urged other political leaders in the region to join forces with the APC to promote unity and progress.
According to Akpabio, “The only party that can bring development to this state and the country at large is the APC. We welcome Governor Umo Eno for understanding this truth.” He added that cooperation between state and federal governments is essential for sustainable progress, especially in a country as diverse and complex as Nigeria.
The Senate President also highlighted the need for political stability and collaboration across party lines to address the country’s challenges. He commended Governor Eno for taking what he described as a bold step and assured him of full support from the APC leadership.
Although Governor Eno did not explicitly announce his defection during the event, his participation in an APC-organized gathering and the statements made by Akpabio have intensified speculation about his political realignment. If confirmed, the move would significantly reshape the political dynamics in Akwa Ibom State, which has long been considered a PDP stronghold.
Governor Eno, who assumed office in May 2023, has previously been seen as a loyal member of the PDP. His administration has focused on local economic development, agricultural revitalization, and infrastructure. His reported shift to the APC may be seen as a strategic attempt to gain broader access to federal resources and solidify political alliances at the national level.
The event in Uyo was attended by several APC leaders, traditional rulers, community representatives, and party supporters. The atmosphere was celebratory, with many attendees interpreting the occasion as the beginning of a new political era in the state.
Political analysts have expressed mixed reactions to the development. Some view it as a practical move by the governor to align with the center for the benefit of his constituents. Others argue that frequent party switching undermines Nigeria’s democratic process and weakens ideological consistency among political leaders.
The PDP has not issued an official response to the unfolding situation, and it remains unclear how the party intends to address what appears to be a significant loss in one of its strongholds. Party insiders, however, have hinted at behind-the-scenes efforts to engage with the governor and clarify his political intentions.
Akwa Ibom has historically played a critical role in South-South politics, and the state’s alignment with the ruling party could have far-reaching implications ahead of future national elections. The APC leadership is expected to continue its outreach to other influential figures in the region in a bid to consolidate political control.
As of now, no formal documentation or announcement of defection has been released by Governor Eno’s office. However, the political message sent by his appearance at the APC event, and Akpabio’s public endorsement, signals a potential realignment that could reshape the state’s political landscape in the coming months.
