Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, August 12, 2025, revealing that his decision followed six months of extensive consultations with key political stakeholders.
In an interview with Channels Television, Governor Eno explained that the move was strategic and motivated by the need for Akwa Ibom State to align with the ruling party at the federal level. “We have stayed in the opposition for so many years,” he said, emphasizing the importance of supporting the state’s own Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, who is a member of the APC.
Eno noted the benefits he foresees from aligning with the centre, particularly in supporting efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to reposition Nigeria’s battered economy. “I believe in the programme of Tinubu – this economy was battered and we were really low by the time he took over power. We have seen the efforts he is making, the reforms he is making, and he should have our support,” the governor said.
He also highlighted how Akwa Ibom State has benefited from these reforms, enabling the government to fund projects and initiatives within the state. “States governments, I speak for Akwa Ibom, have benefitted from those reforms, and that is why we are able to have the funds to do what we are doing.”
Governor Eno stressed that his defection was not sudden but the outcome of deliberate and respectful discussions with political leaders and party stakeholders. “I consulted for six months before moving. I didn’t just wake up and decide to move,” he emphasized.
The governor’s defection from the PDP to APC marks a major political shift for Akwa Ibom State, which had long been under opposition leadership relative to the federal government. Eno’s move has been welcomed by prominent APC governors and party leaders, who see the defection as a strengthening of the party’s presence in the South-South region.
Addressing critics, Eno said, “If somebody is doing well, you say he is doing well, and if he is not doing well, we say he is not doing well. If I can see him and discuss our issues, and he listens to our issues and helps us where he can, why should I work against the President?”
The governor’s official resignation letter was submitted to the PDP ward chairman, with copies sent to both the state and national party leadership, formalizing his departure from the PDP.
Governor Umo Eno’s defection is seen as a pragmatic step to leverage federal support and enhance the development agenda in Akwa Ibom State ahead of upcoming national elections, reflecting broader political realignments in Nigeria’s political landscape.