- Disown ‘Enlightened State Interest’
BY UDUAK EFFIONG – The defection of Governor Umo Eno to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is causing political ripples in Akwa Ibom State as stakeholders in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have rejected the governor’s claims of acting based on “Enlightened State Interest”.
Among the names listed as those with different views on current development in the South-South state is the International Coordinator of Maintain Peace Movement (MPM), Barrister Emmanuel Enoidem
MPM gained prominence as the platform that engineered Umo Eno’s access to the State Government House, Hilltop Mansion, in Uyo
Others include the immediate past State Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep seaport, Comrade Ini Ememobong, who resigned his appointment on Friday, June 6 as well as 15 members of the State Assembly considered loyalists of former governor Udom Emmanuel.
Speaking on current developments in the State, the MPM Coordinator, who is also a former National Legal Adviser of the PDP, Barrister Enoidem, said his refusal to join the governor in APC was based on political principles and values, not convenience.
According to him, political parties should serve as ideological homes not mere platforms for personal gain, saying that political consistency and discipline are essential for strengthening Nigeria’s democracy.
Accusing the ruling party of deploying underhand tactics to expand their political base, Enoidem said; “They are harassing many people, and the APC is using intimidation to pressure people into joining ahead of 2027.
“I would support Umo Eno, the governor who has a strong covenant with the people of Akwa Ibom in key areas.”
Noting that Governor Eno stands out as one of the best governors in the country presently, the MPM Leader pledged his continuous support his administration even as he has moved to APC, adding; “He is one of the best governors we have had in the country, but I don’t think everybody should yield to that intimidation.
“2027, I will support Eno that’s important to our people, he has done well in key areas of development, except he changed and is not performing, because everybody who goes to APC fails. They say failure is part of the gene in the APC.”
Barrister Enoidem hinted that with the governor’s defection now a done deal, the Stakeholders are going to the drawing board to reassess the PDP and thereafter chart the way forward.
Competent sources hinted that with Udom still a loyal PDP member, the stakeholders, comprising State House of Assembly members, Chairmen of Local Government Areas and even some caucus members of Governor Umo Eno’s executive cabinet, consider joining the APC’s train now would be a betrayal of trust since no words have been heard from the former governor.
Already, the resignation of Comrade Ememobong is seen as a pointer to the likely political battle ahead of the 2027 general elections in the State, arising from the Governor’s directives to all cabinet members and personal aides to either defect with him to the APC or resign from his administration.
Explaining reasons behind exiting the governor’s cabinet, Comrade Ememobong wrote; “I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.
“While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform, which is daily validated by numerous Nigerians across many sectors.
“This decision does not affect my relationship with the Governor, who calls me his brother and reposed great confidence in me by saddling me with two very important ministries (Information and Special Duties & Ibom Deep Sea Port). I have and will continue to have tremendous respect for HE Governor Umo Eno, even out of EXCO.
“Let me convey the very sincere appreciation of my family to His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno for appointing me into his cabinet.
“Our very special appreciation goes to Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the immediate past Governor of Akwa Ibom State for his enduring love and belief in me, especially for appointing me to the Executive Council during his administration.”
“I understand this decision may not please everyone, and to those who are disappointed, I humbly seek your understanding”, Comrade Ememobong said in a statement to the media.
Meanwhile, insider sources indicated the days ahead will unfold the situation of things even as there are speculations that the Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Professor Eno Ibanga may have also parted ways with Governor Eno-led cabinet.
Forefront News learnt that like many other political appointees, Prof Ibanga still maintain a strong connection to the immediate past Governor Udom Emmanuel.
