By Solomon OKPO
In a landmark political development, Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has commended Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for what he described as a rare and visionary act of leadership by formally joining the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at a well-attended reception at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, President Tinubu said Governor Eno’s defection to the ruling party was a bold and strategic move that would usher in renewed hope and greater dividends of democracy for the people of the state.
According to the President, Eno’s governance style, anchored on wisdom and vision, has significantly transformed Akwa Ibom’s developmental trajectory. He assured that the Federal Government would partner with the State to deliver on its ambitious ARISE Agenda.
Governor Eno, addressing the mammoth crowd, said the move was in the enlightened interest of the state. “We step out bold, fearless, and determined to realign with the centre for the benefit of Akwa Ibom,” he declared. He reaffirmed his commitment to the ARISE Agenda and promised that his administration’s developmental strides would continue with even greater momentum under the new political alignment.
Citing the long-elusive dream of a deep seaport for the state, Governor Eno expressed optimism that the strategic collaboration with the Federal Government would bring the vision to reality. He appreciated the contributions of past leaders, including Obong Victor Attah, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and former Governor Udom Emmanuel, for laying the foundation for Akwa Ibom’s progress.
Senate President Akpabio, in his remarks, hailed the governor’s decision as a historic reunification of Akwa Ibom with the Federal Government. He praised Eno’s leadership style, describing it as humble, inclusive, and rooted in statesmanship. He further assured that the long-sought deep seaport project would now receive full federal backing.
APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, officially handed over the party flag to Governor Eno, declaring him the new leader of the APC in Akwa Ibom State. Ganduje described the governor as a wise statesman who chose national integration over isolation, and assured him of full party support.
Also speaking, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State and Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum, said the overwhelming turnout was a clear endorsement of APC by the people of the state. He urged Eno to sustain his developmental focus, saying his defection represents a strategic shift towards inclusive governance and national relevance.
APC State Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, welcomed Governor Eno, describing his defection as historic and a symbol of purposeful leadership and development-oriented governance.
The high point of the event was the formal presentation of the APC flag to Governor Eno by the National Chairman, marking his official entry and recognition as the new leader of the party in Akwa Ibom.
The event drew an unprecedented crowd, cutting across party lines, and included dignitaries, political stakeholders, party faithful, and citizens who came to witness what many called a defining moment in the state’s political history.
