…South-South Slips Further From PDP Grip Ahead Of 2027 Elections
The political landscape in Nigeria’s South-South region has shifted once again following the official defection of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Eno, who had long announced he would join the APC, confirmed the move on Friday, citing “extensive consultations” as the basis for his decision.
The defection marks a major political victory for the ruling party and a significant loss for the PDP, which has remained silent in the wake of the announcement.
“After deep reflection and consultations with stakeholders and supporters across Akwa Ibom, I have decided to formally join the All Progressives Congress,” Governor Eno said during a brief address in Uyo on Friday.
“This decision is guided by the need to align Akwa Ibom with the centre for the greater benefit of our people,” the governor justified his move, which was hit by an instant resignation by one of his commissioners.
The PDP, once dominant in the South-South geopolitical zone, now retains control over just one state—Bayelsa.
The PDP’s misfortune comes after a series of high-profile defections and electoral losses. Edo State, previously reclaimed by the PDP, swung back to the APC in the last election.
Delta State followed suit weeks ago, and Rivers State is currently under a state of emergency with an appointed administrator following the suspension of the PDP-elected governor amid a protracted political crisis.
Despite the high stakes, the PDP has not issued any formal statement addressing Eno’s defection. Efforts to reach PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, for comment were unsuccessful.
The APC wasted no time in welcoming Governor Eno into its fold. In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party described Eno’s defection as a step in the right direction for Akwa Ibom State.
“We are delighted by Governor Umo Eno’s decision to join our great party,” Morka stated.
“His entry into the APC will inure to the greater progress of Akwa Ibom State and its people. Our great party assures the governor of its fullest cooperation and accommodation in the APC family.”
The party added that the governor’s decision would further the implementation of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda in the region.
“As we continue to grow the party and work together towards the full realisation of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we believe the governor’s leadership and experience will be invaluable.”
The defection marks a symbolic and strategic gain for the APC ahead of the 2027 general elections, as it now holds sway over nearly all states in the South-South, once a PDP fortress.
