“I Love PDP, But It’s Time to Move”: Gov Umo Eno Hints at Defection Amid Growing APC Ties
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has once again stirred political waters, subtly signaling a likely defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) amid increasing alignment with key figures in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). While the governor stopped short of naming his new political home, his language and recent political maneuvers have left little room for ambiguity.
Speaking during a state banquet on Thursday night to commemorate his second year in office, Eno cloaked his intent in diplomatic language but delivered what many now see as a farewell speech to the PDP.
“I respect our party, the PDP. I love the PDP. But we all know the way things are,” the governor told an audience of state dignitaries. “So, whatever happens, wherever the journey of life takes me, I will always love you. We’ve built strong friendships, and we will always keep them.”
A Calculated Transition
Observers note that the governor’s use of phrases such as “progressively move” is more than poetic flourish it’s a political dog whistle signaling alignment with the APC, particularly under the administration of President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio. Eno has grown increasingly close to both figures, fueling speculation about a well-orchestrated crossover ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Yet, despite the overtures, Governor Eno continues to play coy.
“If you have anything to do, invite me I will come. I will always be there. But it’s time to progressively move,” he said, once again avoiding the direct mention of the APC.
Critics argue that the governor’s silence on his next political move amounts to political doublespeak, designed to maintain his current base while testing the waters in a new camp.
Cross-Party Unity or Convenient Diplomacy?
Governor Eno also used the occasion to call for unity across party lines.
“I would love to see all our party leaders seated together like this, across party lines. We must always put Akwa Ibom first,” he said. “We know we have Akwa Ibomites in the PDP, APC, YPP, and IPAC. What matters most is that there is food, security, and welfare for our people.”
While the message of unity may sound noble, critics question the sincerity behind it. “It’s easy to preach unity when you’re about to jump ship,” a PDP insider remarked anonymously. “This is politics, not poetry. If he’s defecting, he should own it.”
A Broader Political Shift?
Governor Eno’s calculated ambiguity reflects a broader trend in Nigeria’s political landscape, where defections are rarely ideological but driven by strategic interests and access to federal power. His increasing alignment with the APC, particularly as Akwa Ibom navigates development and federal support, is seen by analysts as a move to stay in the good graces of the central government possibly at the cost of party loyalty.
This isn’t the first time a PDP governor has danced at the edge of defection. What sets Eno apart is his smooth rhetoric and carefully curated public appearances that suggest a “transition of values” rather than a blatant political betrayal.
What’s Next?
With 2027 fast approaching, Governor Eno’s next steps will be closely watched. His speech marks the clearest indication yet of his political recalibration, and while he insists governance in Akwa Ibom is not driven by party lines, many wonder how long he can maintain this balancing act.
Until he officially declares his new party allegiance, one thing is clear: Governor Eno may still wear PDP’s colors, but his political compass is pointing elsewhere.
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“I Love PDP, But It’s Time to Move”: Gov Umo Eno Hints at Defection Amid Growing APC Ties