Has Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State miscalculated by defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC)? Political stakeholders in the oil-rich state believe so, as the structure of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) remains unshaken.
Dr Michael Enyong, a PDP chieftain and former member of the House of Representatives, insists that Eno’s exit will not dent the PDP’s chances in 2027.
Speaking to journalists in Uyo, Enyong said:
“The PDP structure is intact. The people who make the party win elections are still in it. We will continue to win.”
Enyong, popularly known as Babantan, recounted his victories in 2015 and 2019 representing Uyo/Nsit Atai/Uruan/Ibesikpo Asutan Federal Constituency, and his 2023 legal battle to be recognised as the PDP gubernatorial candidate.
“PDP is still the religion in Akwa Ibom. Major stakeholders are still with us. Umo Eno’s defection doesn’t worry us. In 2027, we will field candidates — and we will win,” he said confidently.
He described the governor’s decision to switch parties just two years after benefitting from the PDP platform as “double standards,” particularly in light of Eno’s claim that he would continue to control the PDP structure.
“That’s unacceptable. You can’t defect and then claim to hold sway over your former party,” he said.
Quoting Section 221 of the Constitution, Enyong urged the PDP National Working Committee to take legal action and declare the governor’s seat vacant.
“Governor Eno has given no sensible reason for leaving the PDP. His actions should be challenged in court,” he added.