The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, on Saturday, June 21, stirred deep emotions at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, the venue of his official reception into the All Progressives Congress (APC) as he passionately laid bare the reasons behind his bold political transition.
In an emotionally charged address before a massive crowd of supporters, party stalwarts, and national stakeholders, Governor Eno described his decision to join the APC as one rooted in evolving realities and a firm commitment to place the collective interests of Akwa Ibom State above partisan considerations.
“While I deeply respect the emotions and sentiments of some of our people who have elected not to join me on this progressive journey for now,” the governor stated, “I want to say unequivocally that strategic decisions must reflect evolving realities. We must prioritize the future and collective interest of our state.”
Reassuring citizens of his unwavering commitment to inclusive governance, Pastor Eno emphasized that his defection will not alter his promise to lead with fairness, equity, and transparency.
“Let me reassure all Akwa Ibomites that regardless of my political alignment, I remain a governor for all. We will continue to deliver on the ARISE Agenda, our social contract with the people no matter their political affiliations” he affirmed.
Describing the move as “courageous, visionary, and symbolic of a leadership ready to embrace national collaboration,” the governor said it reflected his resolve to pursue bold and strategic partnerships for tangible progress.
“We are not afraid of the future. Our focus remains on steering the ship of Akwa Ibom forward. For in our boat is He who calms every storm Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God who has never lost a battle,” he declared, drawing a standing ovation.
The governor used the occasion to make a heartfelt appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the APC-led federal government to support a long-standing aspiration of the state in development of the Ibom Deep Seaport.
“Our major request today is to help us realize the Ibom Deep Seaport. Akwa Ibom boasts the longest natural draft in the country, 19 meters deep, requiring no dredging. We have waited long enough. I trust that Mr. President, a man of his word, will answer this call,” he said.
Highlighting the political significance of the moment, Pastor Eno likened the state’s new alliance with the APC to a hopeful bride looking to her groom.
“We are making a decision by aligning with our son, the Senate President, Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpabio and committing to work towards delivering victory for our President in 2027. Every progressive movement is aim to consolidate and deliver results,” he noted.
Paying homage to past leaders who shaped the state’s trajectory, Governor Eno acknowledged their enduring legacies.
“I pay special tribute to our father and elder statesman, His Excellency, Architect Obong Victor Attah, who fought for resource control and laid the foundation for our growth. I thank Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, whose righteous anger birthed enduring infrastructure, including this stadium named in his honor. I also acknowledge my political mentor, His Excellency Mr. Udom Emmanuel, who expanded our infrastructure and gave us Ibom Air, most of us arrived here today on Ibom Air.”
He added with optimism: “Now, it is our turn. By the time we leave office, the Deep Seaport will stand as a lasting symbol of progress.”
Concluding with a call to unity and purpose, Governor Umo Eno declared: “It is time to join the progressive train. This movement is not just political, it is purposeful, timely and designed to deliver lasting value to our people.”
The event marked a defining moment in Akwa Ibom’s political evolution, with Governor Eno’s crossover to the APC sending powerful signals across the South-South and beyond.