Gov Umo Eno Affirms Loyalty to Udom Emmanuel Despite Defection to APC

Governor Umo Eno has reaffirmed his loyalty to former governor Udom Emmanuel, declaring that his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has not affected their relationship.

Speaking during a pro-APC rally held in the Eket area on Monday, Governor Eno dismissed speculation of a political rift with his predecessor, whom he described as his “political father.”

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

Governor Eno, who formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in June, explained that the move was made in the best interest of Akwa Ibom State, particularly to align more closely with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration at the federal level.

“My defection is about positioning the state to get the attention and support of Mr. President,” he said.

Eno succeeded Udom Emmanuel in 2023 after serving in his administration and being publicly endorsed by the former governor. His defection to the ruling APC had sparked speculation about a possible fallout between the two, which he has now categorically denied.

The governor’s statement appears aimed at reassuring both his supporters and political observers that party realignments have not affected the foundational relationships that brought him to power.