Akwa Ibom Governor Hints At Defection To APC, Compares PDP To Faulty Aircraft

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has strongly hinted at his possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing deep concerns about the viability and internal state of the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Speaking during the Town Square meeting of the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency held on Tuesday at the QIC Central School, Ikot Akpankuk, the governor likened the PDP to a “faulty aircraft” that may no longer be able to deliver him or the state to the next political destination.

“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?” Governor Eno asked the crowd, drawing loud reactions from attendees.

His statement comes amid a growing wave of defections from the PDP, the latest being the Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, who recently decamped to the APC with several of his supporters. Governor Eno’s remarks have fueled speculation that he may soon follow suit, especially as political realignments intensify in anticipation of the 2027 elections.

Despite the looming uncertainty over his political allegiance, Governor Eno urged the people to continue supporting his administration, assuring them of his commitment to fulfilling campaign promises. As part of his visit, he rolled out an empowerment initiative that benefited over 400 individuals. The package included business grants, cars, and other essential items aimed at boosting livelihoods and economic self-reliance within the constituency.

Observers see Eno’s comments as a strategic positioning move, one that could reshape the political dynamics in Akwa Ibom and further weaken the PDP’s influence in the South-South region.