UYO, Nigeria — In a dramatic political realignment, Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), bringing an end to the PDP’s uninterrupted 26-year rule in the oil-rich state.
Governor Eno made the declaration on Friday, June 6, 2025, during a meeting at the Government House in Uyo, attended by governors from Lagos, Ogun, Edo, Delta, Ebonyi, and Cross River states, signalling the high-level coordination behind the move.
“Earlier this morning I submitted my letter of resignation from the PDP to the ward chairperson. Same copy has been sent to the state and national chairpersons of the party,” the governor stated.
The defection, which follows a period of political consultations, marks a significant blow to the PDP in the South-South region and makes Eno the second governor from the party in the zone to cross to the APC in less than two months, after Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori.
Governor Eno described the decision as a “progressive step” aimed at aligning Akwa Ibom State with the federal government under President Bola Tinubu.
“This move is not a betrayal, but a strategic realignment to ensure Akwa Ibom continues to benefit from federal programmes and national development,” he said.
He praised President Tinubu’s leadership, noting his “admiration” for the president’s efforts and reiterating that Akwa Ibom stood to gain more by cooperating closely with the centre.
Despite the change in party allegiance, Eno sought to reassure residents of the state.
“I will continue to work tirelessly for the welfare of our people, irrespective of political affiliation,” Governor Eno said.
