Several governors elected on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have arrived in Akwa Ibom State ahead of Governor Umo Eno's official defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The high-profile APC delegation stormed Uyo on June 6, 2025, gathering at the Akwa Ibom State Government House to welcome Governor Eno into their fold as he prepares to formally switch political allegiance.
APC Governors' Delegation
The delegation includes prominent APC governors from across Nigeria. Leading the team is Hope Uzodimma, Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum. Other governors present include Bassey Otu (Cross River), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), and Dapo Abiodun (Ogun).
Also in attendance are Governors Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), and Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), demonstrating the significance of this political realignment in Nigeria's South-South region.
Governor Eno's Decision
Days before the official defection ceremony, Governor Eno had signaled his intention to join the APC. Speaking at a town hall meeting in Ikot Abasi on Wednesday, he declared that "it is time to move" and align Akwa Ibom State with the ruling party at the federal level.
"After extensive consultations, I have decided it is in the best interest of our state to align with the federal government," Governor Eno stated, suggesting the move is strategically motivated to secure better development opportunities for Akwa Ibom.
This defection represents a significant political shift in Akwa Ibom, a state traditionally considered a PDP stronghold since Nigeria's return to democracy in 1999.
Implications for Nigerian Politics
Governor Eno's defection further strengthens the APC's presence in the South-South geopolitical zone, where the party has been working to expand its influence. The move may also impact the political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Reports indicate that PDP stakeholders in Akwa Ibom are divided over the governor's decision, with some supporting the move for pragmatic reasons while others view it as a betrayal of the party that brought him to power.
The official defection ceremony is expected to be a grand event with more APC dignitaries anticipated to arrive in the coming hours.
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