The political landscape of Akwa Ibom State and the larger Nigerian political sphere has been shaken by a new confirmation from Governor Umo Eno, who has publicly declared his intention to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) ahead of the 2027 general elections. This announcement comes amid growing rumors that the governor is set to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that would send shockwaves through the opposition party.
Governor Umo Eno made the revelation during a Town Square meeting held at the QIC Central School, Ikot Akpankuk, the headquarters of the Ukanafun local government area. The event, which was part of his engagement with supporters from the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency, marked a significant moment in the build-up to 2027, as Eno candidly discussed the future of his political career.
Governor Umo Eno’s decision to part ways with the PDP is no surprise to many who have closely followed the political developments in the state and beyond. Over the past few months, several high-profile defections have rocked the PDP, including the recent defection of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborewori, who moved to the APC along with several of his supporters.
In his address to his supporters, Eno explained his reasons for considering the switch, stating that the PDP no longer has the political strength or strategic vision to propel him toward his goals. Using a striking analogy, the governor compared his situation to a malfunctioning aircraft. He noted that if one were about to board an Ibom Airline flight, only for it to develop a fault, it would be sensible to board the next available plane that could safely take them to their destination.
“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?” Eno said.
This remark has been interpreted by many as a direct critique of the PDP’s leadership, especially as the party struggles to regain its footing following its loss in the 2023 presidential election. The PDP’s internal challenges, including a lack of cohesive leadership and the ongoing defections, seem to have convinced Eno that the ruling APC is now the better option for achieving his political aspirations.
Eno’s decision comes amidst a growing tide of defections from the PDP to the APC. In addition to Oborewori’s exit, other governors and prominent party members have either joined the APC or expressed disillusionment with the PDP’s direction. This mass exodus signals a broader crisis within the opposition party, particularly in the wake of its failure to regain power in 2023.
For many political analysts, these defections highlight the PDP’s deepening crisis and its inability to retain its members ahead of the 2027 elections. As the party faces internal fragmentation, it is becoming increasingly clear that it is losing its grip on the South-South region, a significant stronghold for the party.
Governor Umo Eno’s potential defection to the APC is a significant development, given the ongoing speculation about his political future. Many believe that Eno could be positioning himself as a key player in the 2027 elections, possibly seeking a second term as governor or aiming for a higher national office.
Eno’s statement about the PDP’s inability to “take him to his next destination” suggests that he is no longer convinced that staying in the party is the best path forward. His comments also reflect the growing trend of politicians prioritizing personal and regional ambitions over party loyalty, particularly as Nigeria approaches another electoral cycle.
The defection of key PDP members to the APC is seen as a boon for the ruling party, as it continues to consolidate power in the lead-up to the 2027 elections. While the PDP struggles to maintain unity, the APC appears to be gaining momentum, particularly with its recent inclusion of governors and other high-ranking officials from opposition parties.
As for the PDP, it faces a critical crossroads. With leaders like Umo Eno questioning its future and loyalty, the party will need to undergo a serious overhaul if it hopes to remain relevant in Nigerian politics.
Governor Umo Eno’s confirmation of his impending departure from the PDP is yet another sign of the ongoing realignment in Nigerian politics. As defections continue to hit the opposition party, the APC stands poised to capitalize on these shifts. The 2027 elections are fast approaching, and both major political parties will need to shore up their ranks if they hope to secure a victory in what promises to be a highly competitive race.