Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has defended his defection to the APC, calling it a strategic move for progress. He urged citizens to ignore outsiders and support the state’s new direction
Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno has defended his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress, declaring it a strategic move aimed at advancing the state’s development and aligning it with the national leadership.
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“We are on the expressway now, and I’m in the driver’s seat,” said Governor Eno on Wednesday as he addressed a large crowd at Victor Attah International Airport, Uyo, following his return from France.
“I know where there are no potholes, and I know the way that avoids traffic jams.”
His comments come amid growing backlash over his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party. Dismissing critics as “detractors,” Eno claimed many of them were outsiders with no connection to the state.
“Some of them are not even from Akwa Ibom but still want to put their mouths in what does not concern them,” he said.
“Let’s remain focused. When you are pursuing an elephant, you don’t let a dog stop you.”
We are on the expressway now, and I’m in the driver’s seat… I know where there are no potholes
Eno reiterated that his alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio was deliberate and necessary for the state’s prosperity.
He described his move as one of conviction, not conflict, and appealed for calm among his supporters.
“This is Akwa Ibom State’s matter. I’ve exercised my right to free association, and I have done it in good conscience. It is about unity and progress, not division,” he explained, stressing that he would continue to govern with the guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Akwa Ibom APC Chairman Obong Stephen Ntukekpo also came to Eno’s defence, describing the backlash as baseless and politically motivated.
“He is the right leader at the right time,” Ntukekpo said, urging residents to rally behind the governor and maximise federal opportunities.
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Prince Enobong Uwah, Secretary to the State Government, who led the reception team, praised the turnout as a testament to the governor’s popularity and performance.
“The people’s show of love today proves they believe in his leadership and the direction he is taking us,” Uwah said.
