IKOT EKPENE, Nigeria – Umo Eno, the Governor of Akwa Ibom, has publicly reaffirmed his support for President Bola Tinubu’s second term in office, emphasizing that his stance is a matter of sincerity and not a betrayal of his political party, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Eno made the declaration on Thursday, April 17, 2025, during a rally in Ikot Ekpene LGA, where he stated his decision to support Tinubu’s second term was well thought out.
“Me, I don’t know how to speak from two sides of the mouth,” he remarked, highlighting his commitment to backing Tinubu’s re-election bid despite being a member of the opposition party.
The governor explained that while his support for Tinubu may appear controversial to some, his choice is rooted in conviction, and he promised to reveal the reasons for his decision at the appropriate time.
“When the time comes, I will tell you the reason, the time has not come yet. But let me keep it first. There’s no point lying to yourself,” Eno said, suggesting that there would be more clarity on his reasoning for the decision as time progresses.
He also clarified that his support for Tinubu’s second term does not affect his affiliation with the PDP.
“Akwa Ibom does not know how to flip-flop. That does not stop me from being a member of my party. I am entitled to my own opinion,” he stated.
The governor’s remarks come amid growing political tension surrounding the PDP’s strategy ahead of the 2027 elections.
Recently, Ose Anenih, a PDP chieftain, criticized the party’s governors for their reluctance to confront Tinubu, accusing them of lacking the courage to challenge his dominance.
Anenih described the PDP governors’ decision to avoid coalition talks as “hubristic,” claiming it was out of touch with political reality.
Dele Momodu, the publisher of Ovation Magazine, also weighed in, suggesting that some PDP governors may be secretly aligned with Tinubu’s administration, especially as none of the leading opposition parties appear capable of unseating the president on their own.
On his political future, Eno also touched on his second-term ambition, revealing that he has garnered support from influential figures within the APC, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
“The Senate president has told me in many fora,” Eno said, indicating a growing consensus of backing within political circles for his continued leadership in Akwa Ibom.
Despite the political tension, Eno assured his supporters that his political approach remains one of mutual respect and cooperation, emphasizing, “If you fall for me, I fall for you. Na play, no be fight.”
