Uyo, June 22, 2025 – The All Progressives Congress (APC) on Sunday rolled out the drums to officially welcome the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Umo Eno, into the party, in a colourful and widely attended rally held at the Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo.
The ceremony drew a formidable crowd of party faithful, leaders, and supporters from across the country. Dignitaries present included the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje; Vice President Kashim Shettima; several governors; members of the National Assembly; and a host of other party stakeholders, all of whom applauded Governor Eno’s defection as a significant boost to the party’s growing influence in the South-South region.
In his remarks, Dr. Ganduje described the occasion as a pivotal moment in the APC’s march toward deepening national unity and democratic consolidation. He noted that the governor’s decision to align with the party reflected a clear commitment to developmental governance and progressive leadership.
Vice President Shettima, addressing the crowd, praised Governor Eno’s “bold and patriotic decision,” adding that the APC was open to all leaders genuinely interested in the peace, progress, and prosperity of Nigeria. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s support for Akwa Ibom State and urged all party members to work together in unity.
Governor Eno, in his first address as a member of the APC, said his defection was driven by a desire to ensure accelerated development for the people of Akwa Ibom, and to align with a federal structure that supports inclusive growth. He pledged to uphold the values of integrity, accountability, and people-centred governance under the APC banner.
The massive turnout and enthusiasm at the rally signalled strong grassroots acceptance of the governor’s move, with party officials assuring him of full integration and support at all levels.
The event marked a strategic political shift in the South-South, with observers predicting a new phase of realignments as the nation edges closer to the 2027 general elections.
