Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has defended his surprise defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), insisting that the decision was taken in the best interest of the state and not for personal gain.
Speaking in Uyo on Wednesday upon his return from France, where he attended the United Nations Ocean Conference, Governor Eno dismissed criticisms trailing his defection, likening them to distractions unworthy of his attention.
“When you are pursuing an elephant, you don’t let a dog stop you on the road,” Eno declared, underscoring his resolve to stay focused on what he described as a “bigger picture” for the development of Akwa Ibom.
He maintained that his switch to the APC is both constitutional and strategic. “For those who think we don’t have a choice, I have exercised my right. It is within our constitutional right to freely associate,” he said.
The Governor also took a swipe at critics, especially what he called “non-indigenes” meddling in the state’s affairs.
“This is Akwa Ibom’s matter. I am the one in the driver’s seat today. I know the road without traffic jams, without potholes. That’s why I’ve chosen to take Akwa Ibom on an expressway of development,” he added.
Governor Eno reassured citizens of his continued commitment to peace, unity, and progress, stating that his leadership remains guided by faith and a strong sense of divine purpose.
Joining voices in support, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, Chairman of the APC in Akwa Ibom State, praised the governor’s courage and foresight. “Governor Eno is the right leader for this time. Rather than engage in vain criticisms, let’s support him to bring more dividends of democracy from the federal level to our people,” he said.
