Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has stirred political discussions after expressing doubts about his future with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), hinting at a possible defection ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking during a constituency engagement on Tuesday in Ikot Akpankuk, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Governor Eno likened the PDP to a faulty aircraft, fueling speculation of a potential switch to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Air, and just before takeoff it developed a fault that would stop it from flying, wouldn’t you take the next available plane to reach your destination?” the governor asked during the Town Square meeting for the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency.
The aviation analogy, interpreted by many as a clear signal of discontent with the PDP, comes amid widening cracks within the party, including recent high-profile defections such as that of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to the APC.
Calls for Unity and Focus Amid Party Concerns.
While raising concerns over the PDP’s internal stability, Governor Eno reassured constituents that his administration remains focused on delivering quality governance. He urged supporters to stay committed to the state’s developmental goals, regardless of the political uncertainties.
“We’re here to listen, assess your needs, and share what we’ve done and what we plan to do,” he said. “Governance doesn’t end at elections.”
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Over 400 Beneficiaries Empowered in Grassroots Outreach.
As part of the outreach, the governor distributed various empowerment packages to over 400 residents in the constituency, reinforcing his administration’s commitment to economic support and grassroots development.
- 154 traders received financial grants
- 116 farmers were supported with agricultural aid
- 4 entrepreneurs received ₦5 million each for business growth
- 131 individuals benefited from equipment support for their enterprises
Governor Eno warned beneficiaries against investing in fraudulent schemes, urging them to make wise use of the funds for sustainable business growth.
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Engagements Across Federal Constituencies Ongoing.
Governor Eno also noted that his administration has so far engaged with four of the state’s 10 federal constituencies and plans to complete the remaining ones soon to ensure their needs are reflected in the 2026 budget.
“This government belongs to the people—it is for you, with you, and by you,” he stated. “We’ll review your requests and incorporate what we can. Others will be scheduled in future budgets based on available resources.”
You May Also Want to Read: Delta Governor, Okowa, Entire PDP Structure Defect to APC in Major Political Realignment.
No Formal Defection Yet, But Political Landscape Shifts.
While Governor Eno has not officially declared a defection from the PDP, his comments have intensified speculation about a potential political realignment. The evolving political climate in Akwa Ibom and within Nigeria’s opposition parties remains a key point of interest as the 2027 elections draw closer.
