President Bola Ahmed Tinubu monitored events from his Lagos residence as Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress in the early hours of Friday, June 6, 2025.
The ceremony took place at the Akwa Ibom State Government House in Uyo and drew key APC figures, including Governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Bassey Otu of Cross River, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, and Monday Okpebholo of Edo.
Mrs. Ekaete Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, was also in attendance.
“After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC,” Governor Eno declared during his defection announcement.
Governor Eno’s switch is expected to trigger a broader shift in Akwa Ibom politics, with reports that 31 local government chairmen, lawmakers, and most commissioners are preparing to join the APC.
However, not all officials are on board. Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port, Dr. Ini Ememobong, resigned from his position, citing personal convictions that prevent him from defecting to the APC.
