A Grand Political Homecoming: Governor Eno’s Defection to APC and Promises of Shared Prosperity
The Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, became the stage for a significant political realignment on Saturday as Governor Umo Eno, along with a multitude of supporters, formally decamped from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). The event, a grand reception orchestrated in the governor’s honor, resonated with pronouncements of unity, development, and assurances of a prosperous future for Akwa Ibom State under the APC’s umbrella. Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu, delivered a potent message of welcome, emphasizing that the governor and his followers would find a secure and respected place within the ruling party. This move, described by Senate President Godswill Akpabio as a "movement" rather than a mere defection, signifies a potential shift in the political landscape of the South-South region.
Central to the narrative of the defection was the promise of enhanced development for Akwa Ibom State. Governor Eno articulated his rationale for joining the APC, highlighting his desire to align with President Tinubu’s ambitious economic and infrastructural reform agenda. The governor underscored the potential benefits of this alignment, particularly for the realization of the long-awaited Deep Sea Port project, a crucial infrastructure initiative that has remained on the drawing board for three decades. This project, along with other developmental aspirations, is expected to gain momentum with the state’s closer ties to the federal government. The prevailing sentiment was that this political realignment represents a strategic maneuver to accelerate the state’s progress and secure a more prominent position within the national development framework.
The reception itself was a spectacle of political camaraderie and pronouncements of shared vision. The presence of prominent figures within the APC, including National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Imo State Governor and Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum Hope Uzodimma, and Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, underscored the significance of the event. Ganduje, highlighting the impressive turnout, characterized the gathering as “intimidating and organic,” a testament to the growing strength and influence of the APC in the region. The collective endorsements from these key political players served to reinforce the message of unity and the potential for transformative change under the APC’s leadership.
Vice President Shettima’s address, carrying the weight of President Tinubu’s endorsement, provided a reassuring message to the new APC members. He unequivocally guaranteed their inclusion and respect within the party, dismissing any concerns of marginalization. Shettima portrayed the APC not simply as a political entity, but as a "family driven by principles and loyalty," extending a warm welcome to the newcomers. Furthermore, he lauded President Tinubu as a "bridge-builder and inveterate democrat," emphasizing his long-standing commitment to the sustenance of Nigerian democracy. This portrayal of the President aimed to solidify the image of the APC as a party dedicated to democratic ideals and national progress.
The enthusiastic reception from APC leaders further cemented the narrative of a unified front working towards a common goal. Senate President Akpabio praised Vice President Shettima’s intellect and integrity, while emphasizing the transformative potential of the new political alignment. Governor Uzodimma of Imo State welcomed Governor Eno to the "moving train" of the APC, affirming President Tinubu’s focus on economic reforms, infrastructure development, and national security. Governor Otu of Cross River State framed the event as a "turning point" for the South-South, marking the region’s renewed alignment with the federal government and signifying a renewed hope for progress.
In essence, Governor Eno’s defection to the APC, along with the influx of his supporters, was presented as a strategic move aimed at fostering development and prosperity for Akwa Ibom State. The event transcended a mere political realignment, taking on the aura of a homecoming and a promise of shared progress. The pronouncements of unity, the assurances of inclusion, and the emphasis on President Tinubu’s development agenda all contributed to a narrative of optimism and transformative potential for Akwa Ibom State and the South-South region as a whole. The event showcased the APC’s growing influence in the region and signaled a potential shift in the political landscape, with the promise of collaboration and development taking center stage.
