In a dramatic political twist, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has reportedly declared his intention to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), issuing a bold ultimatum to his commissioners and appointees: align with the move or vacate their positions.
According to a Vanguard report, the directive was delivered during a closed-door State Executive Council meeting held on Thursday.
Governor Eno, who was elected under the PDP platform, confirmed his planned defection, emphasizing that his decision had been a long time in the making.
“Anybody who claims he is not aware of my intention to leave the PDP is still living in the 18th century,” he reportedly told cabinet members, signaling frustration over any perceived internal resistance.
The governor attributed his decision to his respect for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and a desire to align more closely with the federal government to facilitate development in Akwa Ibom State.
He emphasized that working in harmony with the center was imperative for the state’s progress.
Sources at the meeting disclosed that Governor Eno was unequivocal in his stance, warning that there would be no room for negotiations or fence-sitting among his appointees.
“This is a clear line in the sand,” one source quoted him as saying. “You are either with me or out.”
Governor Eno further clarified that while elected officials, such as members of the State House of Assembly and Local Government Chairmen, may be exempt due to their constitutional tenures, all appointed officials are expected to fall in line with his political direction or resign.
The announcement has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape, given Akwa Ibom’s longstanding status as a PDP stronghold since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999.
Eno’s defection, if finalized, would mark a significant political realignment in the South-South region.
Despite concerns over the implications of his move for PDP’s structure in the state, Governor Eno reportedly brushed aside fears of losing control.
He maintained that he would continue to wield influence over the party machinery even after switching allegiance.
Analysts believe the development could spark a wave of realignments within Akwa Ibom’s political class, as stakeholders assess their positions ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The PDP has yet to issue an official response to the governor’s reported defection.
However, political observers anticipate that the party leadership will mount pressure to either retain Governor Eno or swiftly reposition itself to manage the fallout.
This evolving story marks a critical juncture in Akwa Ibom politics, with potential ripple effects on regional and national political dynamics.
Credit: Vanguard except headline