Commissioner Ememobong Resigns as Akwa Ibom Governor Defects to APC
In a move that signals growing political unease in Akwa Ibom State, the Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Ini Ememobong, has resigned from his position following Governor Umo Eno’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ememobong, a staunch PDP loyalist, announced his resignation in a public Facebook post on Friday, stating that he acted in compliance with the Governor’s instruction for all appointees who do not support the defection to step aside.
“Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign,” he wrote.
A Crisis of Loyalty or Political Intimidation?
While Governor Eno’s move to the APC is already stirring controversy, Ememobong’s resignation throws light on a deeper issue: the rising tension and insecurity for public servants who choose to stay loyal to opposition parties.
In his resignation, Ememobong made it clear that his decision was not driven by personal conflict but rather a matter of principle. He noted his long-standing ideological disagreement with the APC and reaffirmed his commitment to what he described as “politics with principles.”
“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors,” he stated.
This declaration raises critical questions about the climate within the state’s political space. Is the resignation a personal choice or an indirect consequence of pressure to align with a shifting political power structure?
Analysts argue that appointees are being subtly coerced into political realignment or risk losing their roles, a trend that reflects deepening instability in Nigeria’s party politics. Public office is becoming less about service and more about party allegiance, potentially shutting out dissenting voices from governance.
A Quiet Protest or the Start of a Storm?
Although Ememobong clarified that he maintains a cordial relationship with the governor, his exit from two strategic ministries Information and Strategy, as well as Ibom Deep Seaport is symbolic. It reflects a silent protest against the political culture of enforced loyalty rather than ideological alignment.
“This decision does not affect my personal relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries,” he wrote.
He further expressed appreciation to both the current Governor and his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, who first brought him into the state executive council. Ememobong closed his message by seeking understanding from those who may be disappointed, affirming his pride in the service he rendered to the state.
“Given another opportunity, I will do more,” he said. “I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding.”
What Lies Ahead?
Ememobong’s resignation is more than just a political withdrawal it is a mirror reflecting the cost of political dissent in Nigeria’s democracy. As power shifts within Akwa Ibom, the pressure on remaining appointees to conform or quit may intensify, potentially breeding a culture of political intolerance and silence.
In a democracy, principled opposition should not come with consequences. Yet, Ememobong’s resignation suggests that in today’s Nigeria, neutrality is no longer safe and resistance comes at a cost.
Reference
Commissioner Ememobong Resigns as Akwa Ibom Governor Defects to APC