Time to Progressively Move: Governor Umo Eno Hints at Defection from PDP Ahead of 2027 Elections
As political tensions rise ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 general elections, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has once again stirred speculation about his political future, hinting at a likely departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and a possible defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Speaking during a state banquet held in Uyo on Thursday, May 29, to commemorate his second year in office, Governor Eno paid tribute to the PDP but openly suggested that his political path was shifting.
“I respect our party, the PDP. I love the PDP. But we all know the way things are,” he said. “So, whatever happens, wherever the journey of life takes me, I will always love you. We’ve built strong friendships, and we will always keep them.”
While he stopped short of explicitly naming the APC, his remarks were interpreted by many political observers as a clear indication of an imminent defection, especially given his recent engagements the text includes notable figures from the All Progressives Congress (APC), such as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
If you have anything to do, invite me I will come. I will always be there. But it’s time to progressively move. That again will not affect anything in this state.
We do not govern based on political affiliations,” the governor added. The comment marks the strongest public signal yet of his shifting loyalty, reinforcing months of behind-the-scenes maneuvering that have placed him closer to the ruling party’s orbit.
Cabinet already in transition
Governor Eno had earlier in May instructed all commissioners and political appointees in his administration to either resign or prepare to follow him in what was described as a forthcoming “political realignment.” The directive, given during an executive council meeting, confirmed growing rumours that Akwa Ibom’s leadership was on the verge of a major political shift. While the PDP remains officially in control of the state, many of its loyalists are believed to be preparing to jump ship, following a broader trend across Nigeria’s South-South region, where several former PDP power brokers have defected to the APC in recent months. Strategic Moves Toward 2027 Political analysts see Governor Eno’s positioning as part of a broader strategy to align with the APC’s growing influence ahead of the 2027 elections.
His closeness to key figures within the Tinubu administration suggests he may be preparing to play a more central role in the ruling party’s efforts to consolidate power in the region. Supporters argue that Eno’s potential defection reflects political pragmatism, especially in a post-2023 Nigeria where PDP’s internal crises and weakening national influence have led several governors and legislators to re-evaluate their affiliations. Although Eno has not made a formal declaration, the phrase “progressively move” repeated during his speech has become the latest buzzword in Akwa Ibom’s political circles, sparking widespread debate over what’s next for the governor and the state’s PDP structure.
