Abuja: Gov. Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom announced his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC). Eno made the announcement at the banquet hall of the Government House, stating his decision was driven by a desire to support President Bola Tinubu's ongoing reforms.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Eno emphasized the importance of transparency, declaring that he needed to officially align with the progressives to avoid accusations of anti-party activities. The governor highlighted his extensive consultations with key stakeholders in Akwa Ibom before making the decision to switch parties.
'Earlier this morning, I submitted a formal letter of resignation from the PDP to the ward chairman; same copy has been sent to both the state chairman and the national chairman,' Eno stated. He expressed gratitude to the PDP for their support over the past two years and noted that his decision was the result of a comprehensive consultation process.
Eno explained that no other party switch had involved such thorough consultation, underscoring his respect for all stakeholders in Project Akwa Ibom. He further explained his reasons for joining the APC during a meeting with critical PDP stakeholders the previous night, urging the need to adapt to changing times.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Mr. Udeme Otong, Speaker of the Akwa Ibom House of Assembly, pledged his support alongside 25 assembly members. Similarly, Sen. Ekong Sampson, representing Akwa Ibom South, committed to joining the governor in the move.
APC's Akwa Ibom chairman, Mr. Stephen Ntukekpo, welcomed Eno to the party, commending the governor's decision as beneficial for the people of Akwa Ibom. Gov. Hope Uzodimma of Imo, chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum, assured Eno and Akwa Ibom residents of APC's support and promised that the decision would yield positive outcomes for the state and Nigeria.
NAN reports that the event was attended by several dignitaries, including Govs. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Dapo Abiodun of Ogun, Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi, Monday Okpebholo of Edo, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, and Bassey Otu of Cross River.