Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has defended his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his decision was driven by the need to secure peace, political stability, and development for the state.
Speaking during an interview on TVC, Eno said he acted ahead of many of his colleagues, who have since also left the PDP for the ruling APC.
“I came like John the Baptist to prepare the way for you,” the governor said, describing himself as a political forerunner.
Eno maintained that joining the APC was a carefully considered decision, arguing that aligning with the Federal Government would enable Akwa Ibom to benefit from improved funding and support for development projects.
He also cited the presence of Senate President Godswill Akpabio in the APC, saying remaining in a different political party could have created unnecessary rivalry and threatened the peace of the state.
The governor further revealed that he foresaw challenges within the PDP regarding his second-term ambition, adding that subsequent defections by several PDP governors had vindicated his decision.
According to him, leadership requires the ability to anticipate future developments, insisting that recent political realignments have proven his judgment right.
Eno stressed that preserving peace remains his top priority, warning that political conflicts can easily escalate if not properly managed.
He also disclosed that he enjoys a cordial working relationship with Akpabio, describing their collaboration as beneficial to Akwa Ibom’s development.
Hilltop mansion occupant added that he has consistently shown respect to all former governors of the state, noting that he avoids responding to criticism with personal attacks because of his upbringing and belief in responsible leadership.
