Uproar in Akwa Ibom: Gov. Umo Eno Boots Channels TV Out of Government House Over Leaked Defection Video
In a dramatic turn of events that has ignited political debate across Akwa Ibom State and beyond, Governor Umo Eno has reportedly ordered the immediate eviction of Channels Television’s correspondent and cameraman from the Government House. The move follows the circulation of a bombshell video showing the governor allegedly demanding political loyalty from his cabinet amid plans to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The now-viral footage, which surfaced Friday and has since made waves across social media platforms, captures Governor Eno addressing his commissioners in what appears to be an ultimatum cloaked in authority and political brinkmanship.
“It’s no longer news that I am moving party. If you don’t know, I don’t know what else you know,” Eno is heard saying in the video.
“I am told that some of you are saying you will not come. You are free absolutely free not to join me. But you won’t be in my state cabinet.”
He adds firmly:
“Be prepared to resign the day I announce I am moving because you are an appointee and your loyalty is to me. You can’t be in my cabinet and play anti-party. It’s not a threat it’s what it is. I won’t beg you to come.”
Media Muzzled?
The governor’s reaction to the leak was swift and stern. According to reliable sources within the government house, Eno was furious over the publication of the video, which many believe was leaked by Channels Television.
As a consequence, the state reportedly barred the network’s correspondent, Chris Moffat, and his cameraman from accessing the Government House a move seen by many as an attempt to suppress further media scrutiny.
Though Moffat could not be reached for comments, a government official who spoke under the condition of anonymity confirmed the eviction, saying, “It is true, what you heard is true. The governor is extremely displeased over the incident. It’s all about the video.”
Political Shockwaves
The implications of the leaked video are far-reaching. Governor Eno, who rose to power under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), now appears to be openly laying the groundwork for a defection to the APC a move that could reshape Akwa Ibom’s political terrain ahead of 2027.
However, political analysts argue that his approach raises serious concerns about governance ethics and democratic freedom. Ordering appointees to either cross over or resign is seen by critics as an abuse of executive power and a blatant disregard for political plurality.
“This isn’t just about party loyalty,” said a political observer on X (formerly Twitter). “It’s about silencing dissent and turning public office into a private loyalty club.”
Press Freedom Under Threat?
The eviction of Channels TV personnel is now drawing criticism from media rights advocates who argue it amounts to press intimidation. As of press time, neither Channels Television nor the Nigerian Union of Journalists has issued an official statement, but calls for transparency and accountability are growing louder.
“If a governor can kick out journalists for doing their job, then what’s next? Arrest them for asking questions?” one media analyst queried.
What Next for Eno?
With the dust still settling, all eyes are now on Umo Eno. Will he formally announce his defection in the coming days? Will members of his cabinet resist or comply with the ultimatum? And more critically, will the people of Akwa Ibom tolerate such a coercive political strategy?
As this story unfolds, one thing is certain: the battle for loyalty in Akwa Ibom is no longer behind closed doors it’s playing out in the public eye, one video clip at a time.
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