The All Progressives Congress has formally welcomed the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, following his defection to the ruling party.
Eno, who was elected under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party, officially defected to the APC at a ceremony held on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, the party’s National Working Committee expressed delight at Eno’s decision, describing it as a significant boost to both the party and the people of Akwa Ibom.
“The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress is delighted at the news of the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Umo Eno’s decision to join our great party,” the statement read.
The party expressed confidence that the governor’s move would advance the development of the state and align with the broader goals of the APC-led federal government.
“We are confident that his thoughtful decision will contribute to the greater progress of Akwa Ibom State and its people,” the statement continued.
The APC further assured the governor of its full support and cooperation as he integrates into the party and emphasised a collective commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, aimed at national growth and prosperity.
The APC pledged to work closely with the governor to ensure a smooth transition and to deliver dividends of democracy to the people of Akwa Ibom.
The governor had on Friday formally announced his defection at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital.
He said the decision followed “three months of wide consultation” with critical stakeholders across the state.
Eno expressed his gratitude to the PDP for their support during his tenure, stating that it was time for him to make a progressive move.
The governor said he decided to join the APC, citing his admiration for President Bola Tinubu and the need for Akwa Ibom State to align with the federal government to reap continuous benefits.
Eno also assured the people of Akwa Ibom State that he would continue to work tirelessly for their benefit, regardless of party affiliation.
He said, “After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC.
”We’re joining the APC today in the state interest and because of our critical admiration and respect for President Tinubu and to provide the needed support for Senate President, Godswill Akpabio.
”We are not joing the APC from the position of weakness but from the position of strength and alive. We are joining the APC out of a need to align our state with the center.”
Some of the APC Governors who attended the event included the Chairman of the Progressives Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo) and Bassey Otu (Cross River), among others.
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