Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has stirred the political waters with a bold declaration during a recent State Executive Council meeting, hinting at a possible exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while vowing to retain influence over its structure within the state.
Governor Eno, elected on the platform of the PDP, affirmed his enduring respect for the party but raised concerns about the current political landscape, which he says may not favour his continued candidacy under the party’s banner.
“I will continue—and always continue—to respect the People’s Democratic Party, because without them, I wouldn’t be here,” he said.
“But the current signs do not convince me to run on that platform, much as I would have wanted to. Let’s pray that changes tomorrow.”
Despite signalling possible political realignment ahead of 2027, Governor Eno made it clear that he will not allow the PDP’s internal structure in Akwa Ibom to be hijacked by opportunists or external actors.
“We will not leave the PDP for thieves to hijack and use it to fight against us. If anyone thinks we are going to do that, they are mistaken,” he warned.
“We will preserve the party structure so that members can work together and stay united. We don’t want outsiders thinking, ‘Oh, Uyo has moved, let me come and hijack the party.’ Let the structure of the party remain intact. They’ve done their congresses; let them run.”
The remarks reflect a delicate balancing act—one where the governor considers stepping away from the PDP electorally while maintaining strategic control over its grassroots machinery and leadership in the state.
Governor Eno also addressed circulating rumours about the possible dissolution of the state executive council, calling them baseless and misleading.
“Let nobody deceive anyone. I’ve been hearing stories that they plan to dissolve the executive council. It’s not going to happen,” he stated.
“You can only leave this council if you are not performing. Until I finish my first term, I am not going to dissolve the council again.”
He further warned that cabinet loyalty must align with his political direction.
“If you are not with me where I’m going, you cannot be in my executive council,” he said emphatically.
Despite the tension in his message, Governor Eno urged for peace and mutual respect among party members and stakeholders.
“Let’s not fight. No matter where you are, you will always be my friend. We’ll talk about parties. We’ll compare notes,” he added.
With the 2027 elections approaching, Governor Umo Eno’s remarks underline a potentially shifting political landscape in Akwa Ibom—one in which he seeks to redefine his role while holding firm to the reins of party influence.
