A group of state governors and influential politicians converged on Akwa Ibom State on Thursday, June 5, 2025, in anticipation of Governor Umo Eno’s expected switch from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), slated for Friday, June 6,

A delegation of top politicians, including Governor Senator Prince Bassey Otu of Cross River State and Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, arrived at the Akwa Ibom Government House in Uyo. More APC leaders are expected to arrive today to formally welcome Governor Umo Eno into the party.

Governor Umo Eno’s planned defection has sent shockwaves through Akwa Ibom’s political landscape, leaving many PDP stakeholders eerily silent. Insiders claim the party leadership has been caught off guard by the sudden development.

Prominent PDP figures, including party elders, ex-officeholders, and political appointees, have so far withheld public comments, signifying speculation of internal dissatisfaction and quiet resentment.

Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the APC is unfolding amid internal tensions, with indications that many of his aides, including Special Assistants, Senior Special Assistants, and Personal Assistants, may choose not to follow him to APC.

Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the APC is reportedly disrupting the PDP’s 2027 election preparations and could upset the state’s delicate zoning and power rotation dynamics. The move has also sparked resentment among local politicians who feel blindsided by the governor’s sudden switch.

Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the APC will likely further erode the PDP’s national foothold, potentially limiting its control to just ten states: Adamawa, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Enugu, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Taraba, and Zamfara.