In a dramatic turn of events that has sent ripples through Nigeria’s political landscape, Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has reportedly announced his intention to defect from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This development, which surfaced during a State Executive Council meeting in Uyo on May 22, 2025, marks a significant shift in Akwa Ibom’s political dynamics, a state that has been a PDP stronghold since 1999. Governor Eno’s directive to his commissioners and political appointees—either join him in defecting to the APC or resign—has sparked intense debate and speculation about the future of the PDP in the state and the broader implications for Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
According to multiple sources, Governor Umo Eno made his intentions clear during a State Executive Council (EXCO) meeting in Uyo. He reportedly stated, “Anybody who claims he is not aware of my intention to leave the PDP is still living in the 18th century,” signaling that his decision to switch parties was not a spur-of-the-moment choice but a calculated move. Eno emphasized that his defection was driven by a desire to align more closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, expressing admiration for Tinubu’s leadership style. He also issued a stern directive to his cabinet: commissioners and political appointees must either follow him to the APC or resign immediately, leaving no room for negotiation
Build-Up to the Defection
The seeds of Governor Eno’s defection were sown weeks earlier, as speculation about his political future intensified. In late April 2025, Eno sparked widespread discussion when he likened the PDP to a “faulty aircraft” during a constituency outreach meeting in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam. He stated, “If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?” This metaphor was widely interpreted as a critique of the PDP’s internal crises and a hint at his consideration of the APC as a more viable political platform. The APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, quickly capitalized on Eno’s remarks, assuring the governor that “Plane APC is fit and ready to fly His Excellency and entourage to their desired destination.”
Eno’s earlier statements were ambiguous enough to allow for denials, and on May 13, 2025, he attempted to downplay defection rumors during a Thanksgiving Service in Lagos. Quoting a Christian hymn, “Oh, the future lies before me,” Eno emphasized his commitment to serving Akwa Ibom’s people regardless of party affiliation. However, his cryptic remarks, such as “I don’t know where I’ll be tomorrow, whether PDP, APC, or YPP,” only fueled further speculation. By May 22, any ambiguity was dispelled as Eno openly confirmed his plans to join the APC, with sources suggesting a formal announcement could occur as early as June 6, 2025.
Motivations Behind the Move
Several factors appear to be driving Governor Eno’s decision to defect. First, his public support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in April 2025 raised eyebrows within the PDP, signaling a growing alignment with the APC’s national leadership. Eno’s admiration for Tinubu’s governance style and his desire to work closely with the federal government were explicitly cited as key motivators during the EXCO meeting. Aligning with the ruling party could provide Akwa Ibom with greater access to federal resources and political influence, a strategic consideration for a governor eyeing a second term in 2027.
Second, the PDP’s internal crises have weakened its position as a viable platform. The party has been plagued by defections, leadership disputes, and organizational challenges, as evidenced by the recent defection of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the APC. Eno’s analogy of the PDP as a “faulty aircraft” reflects a broader sentiment among some PDP leaders that the party is struggling to maintain its relevance ahead of the 2027 elections.
Third, political endorsements and alliances within Akwa Ibom may have bolstered Eno’s confidence in defecting. Senate President Godswill Akpabio, a prominent APC figure and former Akwa Ibom governor, recently endorsed Eno for a second term, despite Eno’s PDP affiliation at the time. This endorsement, coupled with reports of Eno consulting with his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, suggests a strategic alignment with key APC figures in the state.
Reactions and Implications
The announcement has elicited varied reactions. The APC in Akwa Ibom has welcomed the move, with the Director of the APC Media Network, Iniobong John, describing it as “a huge win for the APC in Akwa Ibom and a sign that the state is ready to align with the national leadership.” The party sees Eno’s defection as a boost to its prospects in the state, which has been dominated by the PDP for over 25 years. Nationally, the APC has actively courted Eno, with statements assuring him of a “mighty good ride” if he joins their ranks.
Conversely, the PDP has expressed disappointment and concern. The party’s state chairman, Aniekan Akpan, was reportedly unreachable for comment, indicating the shock and uncertainty within the PDP’s ranks. Nationally, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor criticized Eno’s planned defection, urging defectors to leave quickly so the party could rebuild with loyal members. The PDP also called on Eno to focus on electoral reforms rather than switching parties, highlighting the party’s struggle to retain its governors amid a wave of defections.
The defection could have significant implications for Akwa Ibom’s political landscape. If Eno successfully transitions to the APC, it could end the PDP’s 25-year dominance in the state, reshaping local power dynamics. However, his claim to retain control over the PDP structure post-defection suggests potential conflicts within the state’s political machinery. Additionally, the directive to his appointees could lead to resignations or internal dissent, potentially destabilizing his administration in the short term.
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