Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Speaking at a press conference on Friday in Uyo, the state capital, Eno explained that his decision followed three months of extensive consultations with key political stakeholders across the state.

“For some time now, the political space—particularly in this state and across the nation—has been filled with speculation about my potential defection from the PDP, the platform that facilitated my rise to the position of governor,” Eno stated. “This conversation has generated diverse opinions. Today, I am here to address those lingering questions. As the Dalai Lama once said, ‘We should always be open to change, but not let go of our shared values.’”

Governor Eno confirmed that he has formally resigned from the PDP, submitting his letter to his ward chairman and delivering copies to both the party’s state and national leadership. “I want to thank the PDP for their support, their love, and the opportunity to serve Akwa Ibom under their banner over the past two years,” he added.

He emphasized that his decision was not made lightly but came after a series of engagements with political leaders and party stakeholders, culminating in a Thursday evening meeting with key PDP figures.

“I believe no one in the political history of this state has consulted as widely as I have before making such a move,” Eno asserted. “I did it out of respect for all of you—as stakeholders in the Akwa Ibom project. I needed your counsel and felt it was important to explain the reasons behind this decision.”

Describing his defection as a response to the evolving political climate, Eno stated, “We must be able to interpret the times, flow with them, and not swim against the tide. Having completed my consultations, I have now decided to align myself with the All Progressives Congress.”