Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has dismissed criticism of his defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying that would not be distracted by barking dogs along the way.

Eno, who spoke upon his return from France, where he attended the United Nations Ocean Conference, likened his political move to a man pursuing an elephant.

He said his decision to join the APC was made in the best interest of Akwa Ibom people and to strategically position the state for greater development.

He defended his move, particularly from those he described as non-indigenes who, according to him, interfere in matters that do not concern them.

“For those who think we don’t have a choice, I have exercised my right. It is within our constitutional right to freely associate.

“Let’s remain focused because when you are pursuing an elephant, you don’t let a dog stop you on the road,” he said.

He reaffirmed his authority and responsibility as the sitting governor.

“This is Akwa Ibom’s matter. I am the one in the driver’s seat today. I know the road without traffic jams, without potholes. That’s why I’ve chosen to take Akwa Ibom on an expressway of development,” he said.

He pledged to continue leading the state on a path of peace, unity, and progress, guided by his faith and a sense of divine calling.

Also speaking, State Chairman of the APC, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, hailed Governor Eno’s leadership and urged citizens to look beyond criticisms and support the Governor’s efforts to attract more federal benefits to Akwa Ibom.

“Governor Eno is the right leader for this time. Rather than engage in vain criticisms, let’s support him to bring more dividends of democracy from the federal level to our people,” Ntukekpo said.