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Governor Umo Eno’s Influence Sparks Major Political Shift in Akwa Ibom
Emmanuel Enoidem, once the national legal adviser for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has revealed that Governor Umo Eno personally urged him to switch allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This disclosure comes amid the evolving political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections in Akwa Ibom State, where party loyalties are increasingly fluid.
Longstanding PDP Member Succumbs to Persistent Appeals
Having been a committed member of the PDP since its inception in 1999, Enoidem emphasized that his defection was not impulsive. Instead, it was the result of continuous emotional persuasion from Governor Eno that gradually eroded his loyalty to the party he helped establish.
Behind Closed Doors: The Pressure Unveiled
Enoidem shared these insights during a confidential meeting with key political figures at the residence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio in Uyo. The discussion, which extended into the early hours of Friday, preceded his official defection to the APC.
He recounted receiving numerous heartfelt messages from Governor Eno, including one that profoundly disturbed him: “Governor Umo Eno sent me a text that caused sleepless nights; he said he felt incomplete without me.”
Persistent Public and Private Appeals
Beyond private messages, Governor Eno’s appeals were also made publicly and at various events. Enoidem recalled, “Whenever we met-be it at church or social gatherings-he would say, ‘my brother, I am very empty without you.'”
One particular message dated January 9 had a lasting impact, keeping Enoidem awake for three consecutive nights. He requested time to reflect and pray before responding, asking for a three-day period to consider the offer. However, Governor Eno, accompanied by prominent Akwa Ibom leaders, soon visited his home, solidifying the decision to join the APC.
Reunion and Defection Ceremony
At the meeting, Enoidem expressed happiness at reconnecting with Senate President Akpabio, under whom he served as a commissioner during Akpabio’s governorship from 2007 to 2015. His formal defection was marked in Utu Etim Ekpo, the administrative center of Etim Ekpo Local Government Area.
The event was attended by Governor Umo Eno, Senate President Akpabio, members of the State Executive Council, party elders, and APC stakeholders. During the ceremony, leaders pledged to secure second terms for President Bola Tinubu, Senator Akpabio, and Governor Eno, while urging supporters to intensify voter mobilization and strengthen party infrastructure throughout the state.
Implications for PDP and Political Dynamics in Akwa Ibom
Following Enoidem’s departure, the PDP’s presence in Akwa Ibom has significantly diminished, with only a handful of prominent figures remaining, including former Governor Udom Emmanuel, party spokesperson Iniobong Ememobong, and ex-Speaker Onofiok Luke.
Addressing fears that Akwa Ibom might be evolving into a one-party state, Commissioner for Information Dr. Aniekan Umanah dismissed such concerns, framing the political realignment as a unified effort toward progress rather than domination.
Enoidem echoed this sentiment, describing the current political climate as “one, united Akwa Ibom,” emphasizing collaboration over competition and viewing the shift as a step toward collective development rather than a threat to democratic principles.
Contextualizing the Shift: Broader Trends in Nigerian Politics
This political realignment in Akwa Ibom reflects a broader national trend where influential leaders leverage personal relationships and strategic appeals to reshape party loyalties ahead of critical elections. According to recent data from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), defections have increased by 15% nationwide since 2022, underscoring the fluidity of Nigeria’s political affiliations.
Similar scenarios have unfolded in other states, such as Lagos and Rivers, where key figures have switched parties following intense negotiations and personal outreach, highlighting the importance of interpersonal dynamics in Nigerian political maneuvering.
