Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending months of speculation about his political future.
The defection was confirmed at a media-restricted event held in Uyo on Friday, which drew several high-profile APC figures.
The Senate President was represented by his wife, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, while the Chairman of the APC Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodinma, was also present alongside Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu.
Several local government chairpersons, members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council, and National Assembly members from the state also announced their defection to the APC alongside the governor.
Addressing attendees, Governor Eno stated that his decision followed extensive consultations with stakeholders across the state.
He revealed that he had tendered his resignation from the PDP at the ward level on Thursday and had also notified the state and national leadership of the party.
“I have decided to progressively move to the APC after concluding my consultations,” Eno said. “Today, I change my political affiliation, but I remain committed to the moral values that have guided my public service.”
He noted that his defection was partly to strengthen support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who hails from the state, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“I will support the President in the 2027 election so he can complete his reforms,” Eno declared, adding that his focus will be on fostering unity and strengthening the APC in Akwa Ibom State.
