In a political twist that has stirred debates across Akwa Ibom State, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has publicly lauded the state’s Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for gifting a brand-new Prado SUV to the APC state chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo.
The high-profile presentation, which took place during the governor’s second anniversary celebration at the International Worship Centre, has raised eyebrows and questions about the real motives behind this surprising bipartisan show of generosity.
Is It Mature Politics Or a Political Soft Landing?
According to Barr. Otoabasi Udo, APC’s state publicity secretary, the party is “excited” by the gesture, describing it as “mature politics” and “a demonstration of the governor’s generosity.” But critics are not so easily impressed.
“While it’s commendable to see cross-party gestures of peace,” one political observer noted, “we must ask: what’s the political price tag of such gifts?”
The timing is also suspicious to many. Ntukekpo has been rumored to be considering a switch in party allegiance. This Prado handover, some say, may be more about softening the ground for defection than bipartisan goodwill.
A Celebration Wrapped in Strategy
Governor Eno used the second anniversary event not just to highlight his administration’s achievements but also to drive home a message of peace and inclusiveness. “Political parties are merely vehicles for ideas,” he said perhaps hinting that loyalty to party lines should not come before loyalty to progress.
That message, while appealing to many Nigerians tired of hyper-partisan politics, is also being interpreted as a subtle nudge toward realignment, especially as 2027 begins to loom in the background.
Opposition Loyalty Up for Grabs?
The APC’s public show of gratitude for a PDP governor’s gift has left many within the opposition confused. Is the APC truly grateful or is this the prelude to political realignment?
In a state where opposition voices have often accused the ruling party of marginalization, this sudden embrace has led to whispers about backroom deals and silent negotiations.
Where Do the People Stand?
At a time when citizens are facing economic hardship and inflation, the optics of luxury SUVs being exchanged between political elites is hard to digest. Some have taken to social media to ask: “Who’s gifting the struggling civil servants a car?”
While Pastor Umo Eno deserves commendation for preaching peace and partnership, observers argue that gestures like these no matter how well-meaning must be weighed against transparency, accountability, and public perception.
Conclusion: Unity or Opportunism?
The governor’s move may indeed be a symbol of unity in a deeply divided political landscape. But without clear lines of accountability, it risks being seen as an elite transaction disguised as a democratic gesture.
And as the APC spokesman warned people “not to overheat the polity,” the public watches closely wondering who’s really steering the wheel of this expensive political vehicle.
Reference
APC Praises PDP Governor for SUV Gift Symbol of Unity or Political Strategy?