Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has described Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as “historic,” praising the move as a bold step that could unlock major investment across the South-South region.
In a statement issued on Saturday, Okpebholo congratulated Eno for ditching the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and embracing the APC. According to him, the decision to join the ruling party is a “strategic alignment” that will benefit the people of Akwa Ibom State through enhanced cooperation with the federal government.
“The decision by Governor Umo Eno to join the APC shows his foresight and dedication to the welfare of his people,” Okpebholo said. “It signifies a strategic alignment that will undoubtedly unlock greater opportunities, foster stronger collaborations, and accelerate the delivery of democratic dividends to the good people of Akwa Ibom State.”
South-South Unity Gains Momentum Through Umo Eno’s APC Defection
Governor Okpebholo emphasized that such political moves are not just about party lines, but about uniting regions with the federal government to drive developmental progress.
He described Eno’s choice as a demonstration of leadership and foresight, noting that “the move will strengthen APC’s presence in the South-South and enhance regional and national unity.”
The defection comes weeks after another high-profile crossover, when Delta Governor Sheriff Oborevwori also joined the APC. The momentum within the region appears to be shifting, as governors realign with federal power ahead of the 2027 elections.
Okpebholo Backs Umo Eno, Slams PDP for Losing South-South Grip
While congratulating Eno, Governor Okpebholo took the opportunity to express dissatisfaction with the PDP, suggesting the party no longer represents the future of the region.
“With more leaders seeing the light and making the switch, the PDP is rapidly losing relevance in a region it once dominated,” a source close to Okpebholo noted.
Governor Eno had earlier told his appointees to join him in the APC or resign, and his announcement on Friday finally confirmed what many suspected since his public endorsement of President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in April.
Umo Eno’s APC Defection Reshapes South-South Political Map
Governor Umo Eno’s defection to the APC, confirmed in Uyo, has redrawn the political boundaries of the South-South. With Edo’s Okpebholo calling the move “historic,” it’s clear that this is not business as usual. Whether for political survival or ideological conviction, Eno’s choice could set a new tone for federal–state relations in the Niger Delta.
