Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has stirred intense political speculation following pointed remarks questioning the viability of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a suitable vehicle for his political journey beyond 2027.
Speaking during a constituency outreach on Tuesday in Ikot Akpankuk, Ukanafun Local Government Area, Governor Eno likened the PDP to a faulty aircraft, suggesting he may be forced to switch parties to achieve his political goals—an analogy widely interpreted as a hint at defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?” he asked the crowd during a town square meeting for the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency.
His comments come amid growing concerns over internal instability within the PDP, recently worsened by high-profile defections, including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the APC.
Despite voicing concerns about his party’s direction, Governor Eno urged supporters to remain committed to his administration’s development agenda, assuring them that service delivery remains his top priority.
As part of the engagement, the governor distributed a wide range of empowerment packages to over 400 constituents, including traders and farmers grants, MSME funding, and business equipment support. Specifically, 154 traders received grants, 116 farmers were supported, four individuals got N5 million each for business development, while 131 beneficiaries received essential equipment.
Governor Eno also cautioned beneficiaries against misusing the funds, particularly on Ponzi schemes or non-productive ventures.
“Governance doesn’t end at elections,” he noted. “We’re here to listen, assess your needs, and share our progress and plans.”
He revealed that his administration has so far engaged four of Akwa Ibom’s 10 federal constituencies and promised that all would be covered to inform the 2026 state budget.
“We will review your requests and prioritize based on available resources. What we can’t do now will be considered in future budgets,” the governor assured. “This government belongs to the people—it is for you, with you, and by you.”
While Governor Eno has not officially declared any intention to defect, his statements have reignited debates about the PDP’s future in Akwa Ibom and the broader national opposition landscape.
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