Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State on Friday officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending weeks of speculation.

The announcement was made at the Government House in Uyo, where Eno revealed that the decision followed “three months of wide consultation” with critical stakeholders across the state.

He said his move was informed by admiration for President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and the need to align Akwa Ibom with the federal government for continued development and cooperation.

“We’re joining the APC today in the state interest and because of our critical admiration and respect for President Tinubu and to provide the needed support for Senate President, Godswill Akpabio,” Eno said. “We are not joining the APC from a position of weakness but from a position of strength and relevance.”

Governor Eno thanked the PDP for its support during his tenure and assured Akwa Ibom residents that he remains committed to the state’s development regardless of party affiliation.

The defection event was witnessed by several APC governors, including Hope Uzodimma (Imo), Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Bassey Otu (Cross River).