The All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally welcomed Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, into its ranks, describing his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a “thoughtful decision” that would accelerate development in the state.
In an official statement released on Friday June 6, 2025, by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the APC’s National Working Committee, led by Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, expressed delight over the governor’s decision to cross over to the ruling party.
“We are confident that his thoughtful decision will inure to the greater progress of Akwa Ibom State and its people,” the statement read.
“Our great Party assures the Governor of its fullest cooperation and accommodation in the APC family, as we continue to grow the Party and work together towards the full realization of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for the good and benefit of all Nigerians.”
Governor Eno’s defection comes after months of swirling rumors and reported internal friction within the PDP in Akwa Ibom.
While the APC has celebrated the move as a political win, critics and observers say the governor’s shift may be less about ideological conviction and more about strategic survival amid shifting federal power dynamics.
Political analysts note that the APC’s warm embrace of Eno reflects its aggressive consolidation efforts in the South-South region, an area that has long been a stronghold of the opposition PDP.
However, Eno’s defection has also sparked unease among loyalists of both parties, with some questioning the sincerity and timing of his realignment.
The immediate fallout has already begun to surface. Prominent PDP figures in Akwa Ibom have voiced disappointment, while at least one cabinet member has resigned, citing a refusal to align with the APC.
Despite the controversy, the APC appears keen to leverage the momentum.
Insiders suggest that the party hopes Eno’s defection will serve as a political catalyst for further realignments in the region ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Meanwhile, the PDP is yet to issue an official response, though internal sources hint at high-level meetings aimed at damage control and party cohesion.
Governor Eno’s political future now rests on how effectively he navigates a new party terrain while retaining the trust of a state that elected him under a different banner.
