In a historic political realignment, Akwa Ibom State Governor Pastor Umo Eno has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), taking a large majority of the state’s political leadership.

The high-profile defection was announced on Friday, June 5, 2025, during a gathering at the Banquet Hall, Uyo, where commissioners, National Assembly members, State Assembly lawmakers, and local government chairmen all pledged allegiance to Governor Eno and followed him into the APC.

“This Is Not a Defection — It Is a Movement” — Uzodinma

Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who chairs the Progressive Governors’ Forum, presented the symbolic APC broom to Eno, calling the shift a “movement” rather than a mere party switch.

“The people of Akwa Ibom are shifting to the progressive fold,” Uzodinma declared.

The Chairman of the APC in Akwa Ibom, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, along with Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Udeme Otong, and Senator Ekong Sampson, were among key figures endorsing the move.

Why I Joined the APC — Governor Umo Eno

In his address, Governor Eno cited “enlightened state interest” as his reason for aligning with the APC.

“I have decided to progressively move to the APC. Though I have changed my political affiliation, my core values, leadership style, and dedication to the people remain unchanged,” he stated.

He assured Akwa Ibomites of a bipartisan, inclusive government, emphasizing that governance should transcend political party lines.

Akpabio’s Endorsement and National Presence

Representing Senate President Godswill Akpabio, his wife, Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, praised the Governor’s courage, calling his decision “visionary” and “bold.”

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The event attracted a high-powered delegation from across Nigeria, including the governors of Lagos, Ekiti, Ondo, Ogun, Ebonyi, Delta, Edo, and Cross River States, as well as federal ministers like Senator Atiku Bagudu and Hon. Ekperikpe Ekpo.

What This Means for Akwa Ibom Politics

The defection signifies a major political shakeup in the South-South, with Akwa Ibom now fully aligning with the ruling party at the national level.

A grand rally to formally welcome Governor Eno and his supporters into the APC is expected soon.

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