Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, who was elected in 2023 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has officially announced his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The significant political move was declared on Friday, June 6, during a ceremony at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital, marking a notable shift in the state's political landscape.

Governor Eno articulated that his decision was a "progressive step" taken after an extensive "three months of wide consultation" with critical stakeholders across Akwa Ibom State. A primary motivation cited for the defection was the desire to align Akwa Ibom State more closely with the federal government to ensure continued and enhanced benefits for the state. He expressed his admiration for President Bola Tinubu and emphasized that the state stood to gain significantly from federal programmes by being politically aligned with the ruling party at the centre. Eno had previously hinted at this move, stating on April 29 that it was "time to move" and likened the PDP to a "faulty aircraft," underscoring his belief that "we must be able to interpret the times, and flow with the times, and not run against the tide."

The formal process of his defection involved submitting a letter of resignation from the PDP to his ward chairperson, with copies also dispatched to the state and national chairpersons of the party. Following this, Governor Eno was officially received into the APC by a delegation of prominent APC leaders and governors. Among those present to welcome him were the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State; Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State; Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State; Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State; Governor Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State; and Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State.

This defection carries substantial implications, most notably making the PDP an opposition party in Akwa Ibom State for the first time in 26 years. Governor Eno's move also positions him as the second PDP governor from the South-South geopolitical zone to join the APC in less than two months, following the recent defection of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State. The announcement has reportedly led to divided opinions among PDP stakeholders in Akwa Ibom. While some may support the governor's decision, others, including former National Legal Adviser of the PDP, Mr. Emmanuel Enoidem, a key figure in Eno's 2023 election, have indicated opposition, asserting that the PDP will continue to field candidates in future elections, including the 2027 polls. The event at the Government House was reportedly kept low-key due to the Muslim Sallah holiday, and there was a significant security presence observed around the venue.

Despite the political realignment, Governor Eno offered assurances to the people of Akwa Ibom State. He expressed gratitude to the PDP for its support during his tenure and for the platform it provided for his political ascendancy. He pledged to continue working tirelessly for the welfare and benefit of all residents, irrespective of their political affiliations. "I want to thank the Peoples Democratic Party for their support, for their love and for working with me this past two years in the affairs of running the state of Akwa Ibom across party lines, but this is a defining moment," he stated, reiterating his commitment to serving the state.