Governor Umo Eno Hints at Possible Defection, Compares PDP to “Faulty Aircraft”
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has hinted at a possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), likening the party to a malfunctioning aircraft unfit for continued travel.
Speaking during a town square meeting on Tuesday at QIC Central School in Ikot Akpankuk, Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency, Eno emphasised that the people of Akwa Ibom are more concerned about effective governance than party labels.
“What Akwa Ibom people want is good governance, not the name of the party,” he stated. “If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline and it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, wouldn’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?”
Drawing a pointed analogy, Eno added, “Whether it’s Ibom Air or Air Peace, board the flight that is ready to take you to your destination. Forget the name of the airline.”
The comments come amid a growing wave of defections from the PDP, most notably that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who recently switched allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC) alongside his supporters. Governor Eno warned that the PDP is becoming increasingly fragmented and risks total collapse before the next general elections.
Despite the veiled remarks about switching sides, Eno called on Akwa Ibom residents to stay committed to his administration’s development goals, promising continued delivery on campaign pledges.
As part of the meeting, the governor distributed empowerment packages to over 400 beneficiaries, including business grants, vehicles, and other support tools aimed at stimulating grassroots economic growth.
Meanwhile, the PDP’s national leadership is in crisis mode. On Monday, the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) held an emergency meeting to address the spate of defections destabilising its ranks. Acting National Chairman Umar Damagun announced that the party’s national legal adviser has been instructed to take action against Oborevwori and other defectors.
With political tides shifting rapidly, Governor Eno’s comments may signal more turbulence ahead in Nigeria’s already volatile party landscape.
