posted 24th May 2025
Umar Sani Condemns Akwa Ibom Governor’s Defection as “Flimsy” in Statement
Umar Sani, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has issued a sharp rebuke of Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, for his defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), labelling the governor’s stated reasons as a “flimsy excuse” that obscures underlying political motives.
In his statement, Sani highlighted Eno’s assertion that unresolved leadership disputes within the PDP, notably over the National Secretary position, could kindise his electoral prospects. Speaking to the State Executive Council, Eno remarked, “I love the PDP; I want to stay in the PDP, but clearly, I don’t have a roadmap to guarantee that I’ll be able to have a smooth sail in the elections, not because we won’t win elections.” Sani dismissed this as disingenuous, pointing out that the PDP’s forthcoming National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting on 27 May 2025 and the National Convention in Kano in August offer democratic mechanisms to address such issues, overseen by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Sani argued that Eno’s claim of potential litigation from a properly constituted National Working Committee is both speculative and misleading. He suggested the defection stems not from party challenges but from personal loyalties and external pressures. Sani noted Eno’s close ties to his predecessor, Udom Gabriel Emmanuel, citing Eno’s recent admission at an event honouring PDP stalwart Emmanuel Enoidem’s conferment as Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN). Eno confessed he still views Emmanuel as the symbolic occupant of the governorship, a loyalty now under scrutiny amid reports of Emmanuel’s invitation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged misappropriation of over N70 billion in state funds.
Drawing parallels with former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa, whose successor has remained steadfastly loyal, Sani suggested Eno is similarly driven to protect Emmanuel’s legacy, potentially shielding him from legal or political consequences. He also pointed to broader political dynamics, alleging that Senate President Godswill Akpabio, aggrieved over past marginalisation by Emmanuel, may have used federal influence to pressure Eno’s defection. Sani further noted President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s strategic aim to penetrate PDP strongholds like Akwa Ibom, Rivers, and Delta, weakening opposition structures and securing electoral advantages for his 2027 re-election bid.
Sani cautioned that Eno’s defection risks alienating Akwa Ibom’s staunchly PDP-loyal electorate. “Akwa Ibom remains a PDP bastion,” he stated, noting that even Akpabio, despite his influence, has failed to sway its allegiance. Lacking Akpabio’s grassroots support, Eno may face political isolation, much like Okowa, who has encountered public disillusionment in Delta State. “Governance should be about service, not survival,” Sani urged, advising Eno to heed the lessons of his peers.
Concluding his statement, Sani framed Eno’s defection as a critical juncture for Akwa Ibom’s political landscape, calling on the PDP to rally and preserve its dominance in the state as the 2027 elections loom.
