In a significant political shift in Akwa Ibom, three commissioners have tendered their resignations following Governor Umo Eno’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Out of the 26 lawmakers in the state House of Assembly, 15 have chosen to remain with the PDP, while 11 have opted to join Eno in the APC.
The resigning commissioners include Engr. Eno Ibanga (Works), Ini Ememobong (Special Duties and Ibom Deepsea), and Emem Almond Bob (Finance).
Governor Eno, alongside the Chairman of the APC Governors Forum, Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, and Prince Bassey Otu of Cross River State, formally announced his party switch at the Banquet Hall of the Akwa Ibom Government House in Uyo, with the presence of Unoma Ekaette Akpabio, the wife of the Senate President.
Following the announcement, Eno registered with the APC at Obotim ward in Nsit Ubium local government area, fulfilling the formalities of his defection from the PDP.
After observing the defection ceremony, Commissioner Ini Ememobong submitted his resignation to the State Executive Council. In a letter shared on Facebook and made available to journalists in Uyo, Ememobong stated that he was resigning in adherence to Eno’s directive for appointees unwilling to follow him to the APC.
His statement read in part: “Today, 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 respect the Governor’s personal decision, I cannot partake in that journey.
“My choice stems from my commitment to principled politics and my longstanding opposition to that political platform, a view echoed by many Nigerians across various sectors. This decision does not diminish my personal relationship with the Governor, who regards me as a brother and entrusted me with two vital ministries.
“I reflect on my history in political and public service with satisfaction and leave the ultimate judgement to history. Given the chance, I would achieve even more.
“I sincerely thank His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno, for appointing me to his cabinet, and I am especially grateful to Mr. Udom Emmanuel, the previous Governor, for his unwavering support and belief in me.
“I understand this decision may not resonate with everyone, and I ask for your understanding. The future is uncertain, but I trust that all things will work together for good for those who love the Lord and are called according to His purpose.”
