"Political Division in Akwa Ibom as Governor Eno Defects to APC, Key Allies and Lawmakers Resist"

Akwa Ibom Assembly Members, Key Allies Reject Governor Eno’s Defection to APC.

A significant political rift has emerged in Akwa Ibom State as several prominent figures, including members of the State House of Assembly and top allies of Governor Umo Eno, have distanced themselves from his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Despite Governor Eno’s formal announcement of his move to the APC, several influential leaders under the platform that originally backed his emergence—Maintain Peace Movement (MPM)—have refused to follow suit. Among those resisting the shift are the MPM’s International Coordinator, Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem; Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Seaport, Comrade Ini Ememobong; and 15 members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly.

Sources say the resistance stems from continued loyalty to former Governor Udom Emmanuel, a staunch member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), under whose leadership many of the current political figures rose to prominence. Over 60 percent of the governor's cabinet, assembly members, and local government chairpersons are said to be Udom loyalists.

Governor Eno had, in a recent State Executive Council meeting, given an ultimatum to his appointees: defect with him to the APC or resign. In compliance with this directive, Ememobong tendered his resignation early Friday.

In his resignation letter, Ememobong emphasized his decision was rooted in principle:

“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform.”

He praised Governor Eno for the opportunity to serve and expressed deep appreciation to former Governor Udom Emmanuel for his enduring support.

Also reacting, Emmanuel Enoidem—former PDP National Legal Adviser—reaffirmed his commitment to ideological politics rather than opportunistic alignments.

“Political parties should be ideological homes, not just platforms for personal gain,” he stated.

Enoidem criticized what he described as intimidation tactics by the APC, allegedly aimed at coercing politicians into switching sides ahead of the 2027 elections.

Despite their refusal to join the APC, both Enoidem and Ememobong expressed continued support for Governor Eno's administration, praising his achievements while cautioning against compromising personal principles for political expediency.

Meanwhile, Governor Eno defended his defection, citing strategic alignment with the federal government as necessary to enhance development in Akwa Ibom.

Why am I in the APC? Enlightened State Interest—aligning with the Centre to attract more federal presence,” he declared.

He affirmed that while his party affiliation had changed, his core values and commitment to service remained intact.

As the political landscape shifts, uncertainty looms over how many officials will ultimately follow the governor’s lead—or remain with the PDP, signaling possible fractures ahead of the 2027 elections.