Sh*ckwave In Akwa Ibom: Governor Eno Declares Exit From PDP, Commands Appointees To Follow Or Resign

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has confirmed his intention to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing internal leadership struggles and his desire to publicly support President Bola Tinubu without facing accusations of disloyalty.

In a viral video, Eno explained that the ongoing disunity within the PDP makes it difficult for him to continue, especially when he cannot freely commend the President’s efforts. He admitted that unlike Minister Nyesom Wike—renowned for confronting party leadership head-on—he lacks the political boldness to challenge the status quo.

“It’s no longer news that I’m leaving the party,” Eno stated. “I love the PDP, but the path ahead is unclear. Despite the work we’ve done in Akwa Ibom, we cannot risk being undone by technicalities like having our forms signed by the wrong officials, as has happened in the past.”

He added that the party’s national leadership remains fractured, making electoral success uncertain despite strong local support. According to him, what drives his administration is not party ideology, but the “Arise Agenda” tailored to the people’s needs.

Eno further challenged anyone to identify clear ideological differences between Nigeria’s political parties, saying, “This isn’t like America’s Democrats and Republicans—we lack that kind of distinction.”

Expressing his support for President Tinubu, Eno said he could not remain in the PDP while backing a president from another party without being seen as engaging in anti-party activities. “I can’t keep flip-flopping,” he said. “If I support the President, I need to be in a place where I can openly acknowledge his work.”

He concluded, “I don’t have Wike’s kind of strength to challenge everyone. I’m a simple man and speak from conviction—not defiance. That doesn’t mean I have anything against the PDP.”