The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, has formally declared her intention to follow Governor Umo Eno in his anticipated defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing persistent challenges within the party at the national level.
Speaking during a meeting with stakeholders and elders from her Oron ethnic bloc, Eyakenyi expressed concern over the direction of the PDP nationally, while maintaining that the party remains strong and united within the state.
“I’m sure you are all aware the Governor is making a serious political move, which is occasioned by the intractable crises bedeviling the PDP,” she said.
She acknowledged that the party in Akwa Ibom is not affected by the internal divisions at the national level, but noted that the larger outlook does not inspire confidence.
“At the State level, the PDP doesn’t have any problem and would win any election. But the issue is beyond that. At the national level, the PDP isn’t doing well, and there’s no indication the problems will be solved anytime soon.”
The Deputy Governor further revealed that her decision to align with the Governor’s next political move was already known to most party stakeholders, but deemed it necessary to personally communicate her position to her constituents.
“Although the Governor has already directly or indirectly communicated with most of you on the decision, I felt it was also necessary for you to hear from me that I will be moving with the Governor wherever his next destination is,” she concluded.
Her comments add weight to growing speculation about the Governor’s imminent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move that could significantly alter the political landscape in the state.
