Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has reportedly finalized plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), issuing an ultimatum to his appointees: join him or resign. The move, revealed during a State Executive Council meeting, signals a major political shift in the oil-rich state.
- Defection Plans: Governor Eno confirmed his intention to join the APC, praising President Tinubu’s leadership style.
- Ultimatum to Appointees: Commissioners and aides must defect with him or resign; elected officials (e.g., lawmakers, LG chairmen) are exempted.
- Political Control Claim: Eno asserted he would retain influence over PDP structures despite leaving.
- APC Confirmation: APC Media Network Director Iniobong John called it "great news," though no official date is set.
- PDP Silence: State PDP chairman Aniekan Akpan could not be reached for comment.
In Nigerian politics, cross-carpeting is routine, but enforcing loyalty through ultimatums reveals deeper power struggles.
Should governors mandate party allegiance for appointees, or does this undermine democratic choice?
