President Bola Tinubu was spotted watching Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno's defection ceremony from his living room in Lagos State on Friday, June 6, 2025.
In a video that has since circulated online, the President was seen sitting on a sofa, attentively viewing the live broadcast of Governor Eno's official switch from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and two other officials were also present, all focused on the television screen as the political event unfolded.
High-Profile Defection Ceremony
The defection ceremony took place in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State capital, and was attended by several APC governors including Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Monday Okpebholo (Edo), and Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi).
Governor Eno's move to the APC did not come as a surprise to political observers. While still in the PDP, he had openly expressed admiration for President Tinubu and the APC. In fact, the governor had previously endorsed Tinubu for a second term and criticized the leadership crisis within the PDP.
"I can't profess love for Tinubu without joining his party," Governor Eno had stated earlier regarding his move to the APC.
Political Implications
This defection represents a significant political shift in Akwa Ibom, a state traditionally considered a PDP stronghold. It also strengthens the APC's presence in the South-South geopolitical zone ahead of future elections.
Not all state officials have followed the governor's path, however. Akwa Ibom Commissioner Ememobong reportedly resigned from his position, refusing to abandon the PDP for the APC.
President Tinubu is currently in Lagos State observing the Sallah holidays and is expected to return to Abuja afterward.
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