Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has officially resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The announcement was made on Friday at the Government House in Uyo, the state capital, marking a major political realignment in the oil-rich South-South region.

Eno explained that his decision followed “three months of extensive consultations” with key stakeholders across the state.

He expressed gratitude to the PDP for their support since he assumed office but emphasized that the time had come for a “progressive transition.”

The governor cited his admiration for President Bola Tinubu and stressed the importance of aligning Akwa Ibom with the federal government to maximize the state’s benefits from the center.

“After thorough consultations as your elected servant, I have decided to make a progressive move to the APC,” he declared.

“We are joining the APC in the interest of the state, driven by our deep respect for President Tinubu and to strengthen support for Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

“Our defection is not out of weakness but from a position of strength and vitality. We aim to synchronize our state’s progress with that of the federal government.”

Eno reassured citizens that his administration remains dedicated to serving all residents, irrespective of political affiliation.

The defection ceremony was attended by several APC governors, including Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, as well as Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos), Dapo Abiodun (Ogun), Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Francis Nwifuru (Ebonyi), Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo), and Bassey Otu (Cross River), among others.