Umo Eno: Despite defection to APC, I’m still Udom’s political son

Umo Eno, governor of Akwa Ibom, says his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has not affected his relationship with his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel.

Eno, who was elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), officially announced his move to the APC in June, citing months of consultations with stakeholders across the state.

Speaking on Monday during a pro-APC rally in Eket, the governor reaffirmed that his decision was in the interest of Akwa Ibom and not a betrayal of his political mentor.

“Let me make it abundantly clear that there is no issue between me and my political father, former governor Udom Emmanuel. There is no issue whatsoever,” Eno said.

“We have moved in the best interest of Akwa Ibom state for today so that we can pull our support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That does not cause any confusion.”

The governor, who was handpicked by Emmanuel to succeed him in 2023, said the political alignment with the APC has not disrupted their personal relationship.

“I visit him, I talk with him, and we are still together. I am his political son. He brought me out to run for governor. And so, he will always earn our respect, our support, and I’d like to make that assurance,” he said.

Eno’s defection had sparked speculation about a possible rift with Emmanuel, a staunch PDP figure and former banker who served two terms as governor from 2015 to 2023. But he said such claims were unfounded and politically motivated.

Since his switch to the ruling party, Eno has been increasingly vocal in his support for Tinubu, calling on the people of Akwa Ibom to align with the federal government for greater development and access to national resources.

At the rally, Eno said his administration remains focused on delivering governance and developmental projects, adding that partisan affiliations should not hinder the state’s progress.