By Solomon OKPO
Former Minister of Petroleum and chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, Atuekong Don Etiebet, CON, has extended a warm welcome to Governor Umo Eno and members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) following their defection to the APC.
Describing the Governor’s move as both “courageous and strategic,” Etiebet said the decision marks a defining moment in the state’s political and developmental trajectory. He commended Governor Eno for aligning Akwa Ibom with the Federal Government, particularly under the influential leadership of Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio.
In a statement released to the press, Etiebet said, “I warmly welcome the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Eno, Ph.D., and the PDP family into the APC. Their decision to join at this pivotal time in our nation’s political history is a profound commitment to unity, development, and strategic alignment with the centre of power.”
The elder statesman noted that Governor Eno’s performance in the last 24 months has demonstrated inclusivity, competence, and a deep connection to the grassroots. Highlighting specific achievements, he cited the long-overdue reconstruction of the road leading to his native village in Oruk Anam as a “blessing” and evidence of the governor’s people-centered leadership.
“Generations of leaders promised that road but failed to act. Governor Eno broke that jinx. For this alone, the people of Oruk Anam will not forget him.”
Etiebet praised the Governor’s decision to prioritize indigenous contractors for key infrastructural projects, including roads and flyovers, saying it underscores a shift toward self-reliant, sustainable development.
He added that Governor Eno’s entry into the APC—alongside other PDP stakeholders—injects new energy and expertise into the party ahead of the 2027 elections. He called on APC members across the state to embrace the new entrants with openness and solidarity.
“This is not the time for division, but for unity. The coming of Governor Eno and his team has effectively collapsed political boundaries. We now have one big Akwa Ibom movement focused on peace, progress, and prosperity.”
Etiebet emphasized that collective leadership among stakeholders—under the guidance of Governor Umo Eno and Senate President Akpabio—will set the state on a bold new path toward achieving its full potential.
