Paragraph 1: Governor Eno’s Defection and Justification
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has defended his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), asserting that the move is in the best interests of the state. Addressing a large crowd upon his return from France, Governor Eno dismissed critics of his decision, characterizing them as detractors and destructive elements, many of whom, he claimed, are not even residents of Akwa Ibom State. He emphasized his autonomy in making this decision, likening himself to a driver who knows the best route to avoid traffic jams and potholes, implying that his move to the APC is a strategic maneuver to navigate the political landscape and secure advantages for the state.
Paragraph 2: Focus on Unity and Support for Tinubu and Akpabio
Governor Eno underscored the importance of maintaining unity and peace within Akwa Ibom State while aligning with the national leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio, both members of the APC. He portrayed his defection not as a divisive act but as a calculated strategy to position Akwa Ibom for greater progress and influence within the national political arena. This alignment, he suggested, would facilitate access to resources and opportunities for the state’s development. He urged the people of Akwa Ibom to disregard the criticisms surrounding his defection and remain focused on the shared goal of progress.
Paragraph 3: Exercising Political Rights and Strategic Positioning
Governor Eno reiterated his right to freely associate and choose his political affiliation, framing his defection as a legitimate exercise of this right. He dismissed the criticisms as irrelevant, particularly those emanating from individuals outside of Akwa Ibom. He reinforced the analogy of navigating a clear path, emphasizing his knowledge of the political terrain and his ability to steer the state towards prosperity. He portrayed himself as a visionary leader with a clear understanding of the political landscape and the optimal path for Akwa Ibom’s advancement.
Paragraph 4: Divine Guidance and Commitment to Progress
Governor Eno invoked divine guidance, stating that he believes the Holy Spirit has chosen him to lead Akwa Ibom at this critical juncture. He reaffirmed his commitment to leading the state on a path of unity, peace, and progress, suggesting that his decisions are guided by a higher purpose. This appeal to faith and divine mandate serves to bolster his legitimacy and garner support from the religiously inclined segment of the population.
Paragraph 5: Support from APC Chairman and Justification for Defection
Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, the APC State Chairman, echoed Governor Eno’s sentiments, describing the criticisms surrounding the defection as unreasonable. He affirmed the governor’s leadership qualities and his commitment to serving the state with passion, regardless of opposition. Ntukekpo called for unity and support for the governor, emphasizing the potential for increased dividends of democracy flowing from the federal level to Akwa Ibom due to the governor’s alignment with the ruling party. This reinforces the narrative of strategic positioning and access to resources as key benefits of the defection.
Paragraph 6: Demonstration of Solidarity and Popular Support
The Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, organized a warm welcome for Governor Eno upon his return, showcasing a display of solidarity and popular support. This orchestrated reception was presented as evidence of the governor’s popularity and the public’s endorsement of his leadership and recent political move. The enthusiastic welcome served to counter the narrative of dissent and portray the defection as a widely accepted and celebrated decision within Akwa Ibom State.
