*Special Report*
By George Ozalla
All is now set in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital city for the grand reception of Governor Umo Eno and his supporters and loyalists who recently crossed over to All Progressives Congress (APC) from the main opposition party, Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
Governor Bassey Umo Eno’s ‘sparkling’ relationship with Senate President Senator Godswill Akpabio has played a crucial role in his entrant with his supporters to the ruling party- All Progressives Congress APC.
The two leaders have maintained a cordial relationship, which has been instrumental in facilitating several developmental projects in the state.
The President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Vice President, Ministers, APC National Working Committee Members, APC National Assembly Lawmakers, APC Governors and party stalwarts are set to give Governor Eno and a group of defectors from the PDP a grand reception today, Saturday, June 21, 2024. This development has sparked speculation that the APC is gearing up to make a strong showing in the state in 2027 general election and going forward.
The reception is expected to be several high-profile event as hotels in Uyo and environs are all fully booked. The event is a clear indication of Governor Eno’s growing influence and acceptance within the party and of course the great backing by number three citizen, Senator Godswill Akpabio and Eno’s ability to attract support from other key stakeholders.
Notably, the Governor has already started receiving top APC leaders into the state, including APC Chairman Alhaji Abubakar Umar Ganduje and APC National Youth Leader, Dayo Israel, who arrived in the state last night. This move demonstrates the party’s commitment to supporting Governor Eno’s re-election bid.
Analysts and keen observers believe that Governor Eno’s wise relationship from the word ‘go’ with Senator Akpabio could be a major factor in his favor as he seeks re-election. With the Senate President’s strong backing, Governor Eno may be able to tap into the resources and influence of the APC’s national leadership, which could give him a significant advantage over his opponents.
Meanwhile, Former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who handed over to Governor Eno after serving two terms, is still a key figure in the PDP. As the party’s structure in the state remains under his care, it’s worth noting that Governor Eno emerged as Governor with firm support and endorsement from Governor Emmanuel when he was the PDP Governor. The current dynamics, however, suggest that Governor Eno’s decision to join the APC may have created tension and division within the PDP.
The PDP’s internal crisis, which has been ongoing for some time, may also be a factor in Governor Eno’s favor. The deep-rooted and never-ending crisis within the party has led to speculation that there may be more defectors in-waiting. This instability could further weaken the PDP’s chances in the state, making it even more challenging for them to mount a strong opposition to Governor Eno’s re-election bid.
With the party’s support, Eno may be able to overcome any challenges and secure a smooth victory. The PDP’s internal dynamics and potential divisions could also impact the party’s chances in the state.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: Governor Eno’s continued cordial relationship with Senator Akpabio and the APC’s national leadership will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the election and more defectors from the PDP to APC will certainly happen after today’s envisaged carnival-like grand reception. Looking at all these developments, it seems that the stage is set for a potentially decisive moment in Akwa Ibom State’s political history.
