The Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, has extended heartfelt congratulations to Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State on his official defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Senator Akpabio, represented by his wife, Mrs. Uloma Akpabio, at the event held on Friday in Uyo, commended Governor Eno’s decision as a courageous and visionary step that aligns with the path of progress and national integration.
Addressing the gathering, Mrs. Uloma Akpabio conveyed the Senate President’s goodwill message, stating, “Our dear governor, God’s chosen, Pastor Umo Eno, welcome to the APC. Congratulations on this bold move. To the deputy governor—our noble daughter—you now have a great responsibility ahead.”
She described the governor’s defection as a divine decision and a turning point for the state’s development. “You are a child of God, and God has opened your eyes to the truth. The APC is the light, and all genuine development can only come from the party at the center,” she added.
Recalling the challenges of joining the APC during their own time, she said, “Back then, it was like cutting through a forest with a knife—no axe, no bulldozer. But today, with your entry, the path is clearer. I’m truly glad you have made this decision.”
She further urged Governor Eno to remain steadfast in the face of inevitable criticism. “Be prepared. Stakeholders will criticize and insult you, but do not be afraid. As a child of God, the Word will comfort and strengthen you. God will protect your family and bless you for this selfless decision, which you made not for personal gain but for the good of Akwa Ibom people.”
In a show of unanimous support, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, speaking on behalf of Commissioners and Special Advisers, affirmed the full commitment of the state executive council to the APC.
“Your Excellency, even before now, we had already moved with you. Standing before you today are your first eleven—the core of your executive council—now part of the APC. As the first APC Secretary to the State Government, I assure you of our loyalty and readiness to follow you as a leader who listens and seeks the growth of Akwa Ibom,” Uwah declared.
Also speaking at the event, the Speaker of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, confirmed the decision of Assembly members to align with the governor’s new political direction.
“We have witnessed what you’ve done in just two years. For the next six years, we will continue to support you because we believe in your vision for the state,” he stated.
Senator Ekong Sampson of Eket Senatorial District led the Akwa Ibom National Assembly Caucus in a demonstration of solidarity, affirming their full support for Governor Eno’s defection.
Likewise, the State Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Uwemedimo Udo, led all local government chairmen in pledging their loyalty and collective move to the APC.
“This is the only state where the governor is constructing official residences for local government chairmen at no cost. While other states battle over local government autonomy, here, His Excellency is actively supporting it. As loyal representatives, we are following your leadership into the APC,” Udo noted.
Despite speculations that at least three members of the State Assembly may not join the APC, the overwhelming show of unity from key stakeholders has reaffirmed Governor Eno’s strong backing across various arms of government.
The event was graced by several distinguished personalities including past and present members of the National Assembly. Among them were Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Senator Aniekan Bassey, Senator Ita Enang, Chief Essien Nduese, Chief Don Etiebet, and the Minister of State for Petroleum, Ekperikpo Ekpo.
Governor Eno’s defection marks a significant political shift in Akwa Ibom State and signals a broader realignment of forces aimed at fostering unity and development under the umbrella of the All Progressives Congress.