2027: Akwa Ibom Gov Umo Eno hints on defection to APC amid PDP’s crisis

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has expressed the possibility of defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), indicating that the party may not fulfill his political ambitions after 2027.

Speaking at a constituency outreach event in Ikot Akpankuk, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Eno drew a striking analogy, likening the PDP to a faulty aircraft, which has led to speculation about a potential move to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and at the point of takeoff, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, wouldn’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?” Eno questioned the crowd.

This revelation comes during a period of increased tensions and notable defections within the PDP, following Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent transition to the APC.

Despite his concerns about the PDP’s trajectory, Eno reassured the audience of his administration’s commitment to governance, emphasizing that service to the people remains his top priority.

Throughout the outreach, over 400 constituents received various empowerment packages. This included grants awarded to 154 traders, support for 116 farmers, N5 million in business development funds distributed to four individuals, and equipment support for 131 others. Eno urged beneficiaries to use the support wisely and to avoid high-risk ventures such as Ponzi schemes. “We need to have consistent engagement with the people. Governance doesn’t end at elections,” he remarked.

Eno also noted that four of the state’s ten federal constituencies have been engaged in this outreach, with plans to integrate community needs into the 2026 budget. “This government belongs to the people—it is for you, with you, and by you,” he concluded, reinforcing his dedication to inclusive governance.

Source: The Nation