By Chinelo Obogo
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has suggested that he may defect from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Speaking to a crowd at a Town Square meeting in Ikot Akpankuk, headquarters of Ukanafun Local Government Area on Tuesday, Governor Eno used an aviation metaphor to describe his plans.
“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?” the Governor asked the gathering.
This statement confirms an exclusive report published by Daily Sun in which it was revealed that more governors from the PDP will defect in the coming weeks. This potential defection would represent another significant blow to the PDP, which has continued to struggle since losing the presidency in the 2023 elections.
Eno’s comment is a clear indication that he views the PDP which has suffered numerous high-profile defections recently and has been embroiled in crisis as a political vehicle no longer capable of supporting his ambitions beyond 2027.
The Governor’s comments come in the wake of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborewori’s recent defection to the APC, along with numerous supporters. Eno cited these developments, describing the PDP as “heavily fragmented” and suggesting it “may soon grind to a halt.”
However, Governor Eno urged his constituents to maintain support for his administration’s ongoing initiatives. The event concluded with an empowerment program benefiting over 400 residents through business grants, vehicles, and other assistance.