Senate President Godswill Akpabio has congratulated Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, on his decision to join the All Progressives Congress (APC), stating that meaningful development is only possible through alignment with the party at the federal level.

Represented by his wife, Uloma Akpabio, at the formal defection ceremony held Friday in Uyo, Akpabio expressed confidence that Governor Eno would not regret his move to the APC.

“Our dear governor, God’s chosen, Pastor Umo Eno — the newest member of the APC — congratulations and welcome. To the Deputy Governor, my daughter, the noble lady, there is work to be done,” Akpabio said.

He reflected on his own political journey, describing it as a difficult path compared to the ease Eno would enjoy now as a member of the ruling party. “In our time, joining the APC was like clearing a forest with a knife — not an axe or bulldozer. But I’m glad you've seen the light. God, who knows your heart, has opened your eyes because you mean well for the people,” he added.

According to Akpabio, under the APC-led federal government with a visionary president and a peace-seeking Senate President, development opportunities will flourish. He also welcomed returning and new defectors to the APC, encouraging others still in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to follow suit. He, however, warned Governor Eno to be prepared for criticism and opposition, reminding him to draw strength from his faith. “Do not be afraid. God will protect your family and reward your courage. You’ve taken this step not for yourself but for the good of Akwa Ibom people,” he said.

Also speaking at the event, Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prince Enobong Uwah, confirmed that all Commissioners and Special Advisers have resolved to follow the Governor into the APC. “We already made the decision during our Executive Council meeting. These are your first eleven, your loyal team. We are with you all the way,” Uwah affirmed.

On behalf of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Speaker Udeme Otong declared that the lawmakers were joining Governor Eno in the APC, citing the Governor’s achievements over the past two years as a key reason for their continued support. “We are with you for the next six years because you have shown a genuine commitment to the development of Akwa Ibom,” he said. Although unconfirmed reports suggested that at least three state legislators might not join the Governor in defecting, the overwhelming show of support from key stakeholders indicated broad acceptance of the move.

Senator Ekong Sampson led the Akwa Ibom National Assembly Caucus in affirming their support for Governor Eno, while the state’s ALGON Chairman, Uwemedimo Udo, announced that all local government chairmen were also moving with the Governor to the APC.

“This is the only state where the governor is building official residences for local government chairmen at no cost. While others are clashing over local government autonomy, our Governor supports it. In appreciation, we are declaring our full loyalty to you and the APC,” Udo stated.

Present at the event were several past and present National Assembly members and political figures, including Senator Effiong Bob, Senator Emmanuel Ibok Essien, Senator Aniekan Bassey, Senator Ita Enang, Chief Essien Nduese, Chief Don Etiebet, and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Ekperikpo Ekpo.