Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has hinted at his possible defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) internal issues. Speaking to a crowd in Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency, Eno compared the PDP to a spoilt plane that may no longer be able to take him to his desired destination.
“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?” Eno queried. The crowd responded with “No!” Eno continued, “Board a flight, disregard the name of the plane. Go to Lagos if you have business you want to do. When Ibom Air is fixed, and you want to fly another day, you can fly with them. But if you have an important business, board the available plane and fly.”
The governor’s comments come against the backdrop of recent defections from the PDP, including Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborewori’s move to the APC. A source close to the governor cited concerns over the PDP’s internal conflicts, particularly regarding the party’s secretariat, as a possible reason for Eno’s potential defection.
“If a secretary of one faction signed his second term nomination form and the next day a court declared that faction is illegal, that means his nomination is not valid,” the source said.
Despite the speculation, Governor Eno urged supporters to remain steadfast in backing his administration’s efforts to deliver on its campaign promises. He also distributed empowerment grants to over 400 constituents, including business grants and cars.