Governor Umo Eno’s confirmation of his imminent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) marks a significant political shift in Akwa Ibom State and could have broader implications ahead of the 2027 general elections. While he hasn’t explicitly named the All Progressives Congress (APC) as his next political home, his remarks suggest a strategic realignment.
Using a vivid metaphor, Eno likened the PDP to a grounded aircraft, implying that the party is no longer a viable vehicle for his political aspirations:
“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?”
His comments, made during a town hall meeting in Ukanafun, align with growing trends of defections from the PDP—most recently, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who joined the APC with a significant number of supporters, citing the “benefit of the people” as his reason.
Governor Eno’s potential move to the APC, if confirmed, would reinforce the ruling party’s consolidation of influence in the South-South, traditionally a PDP stronghold. It may also reflect growing dissatisfaction within the opposition party’s ranks regarding leadership, internal cohesion, or strategic direction.