Senate President, Godswill Akpabio and Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno on Friday formally received the former National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Emmanuel Enoidem into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Enoidem was welcomed at a political rally held in Utu Etim Ekpo, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State.
Speaking at the event, Senator Akpabio described Enoidem’s defection as the Biblical story of a shepherd who left 99 sheep to search for one that had gone astray. Akpabio noted that Enoidem had earlier served as a commissioner during his time as governor of the state.
He praised Governor Umo Eno for facilitating the return of Enoidem to the APC, saying the move would promote peace and unity ahead of future elections in the state. According to him, the defection would help ensure peaceful electioneering not only in Akwa Ibom North-West Senatorial District but across the state.
Akpabio expressed confidence that the APC would record an easy victory in the 2027 general elections following the defection.
“This rally is like reconnecting me with one of my political mentees. I am happy to receive Enoidem into the APC,” Akpabio said.
He added that the event marked the return of peace to Akwa Ibom State, stressing that peace is necessary for development.
Recalling the 2023 elections, Akpabio thanked the people of Etim Ekpo for supporting him despite Enoidem contesting against him at the time. He said with Enoidem now back in the same party, the state should expect rancour-free elections in 2027.
During the rally the crowd openly declaring support for the re-election of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Umo Eno and Senator Akpabio.
In his remarks, Governor Umo Eno acknowledged Enoidem’s role in his emergence as governor and thanked him for joining the APC in what he described as the overall interest of Akwa Ibom State.
The governor revealed that even while Enoidem was still in the PDP, he had promised to support his re-election and that of Senator Akpabio. However, Enoidem later agreed that joining the APC would better serve the state’s interest.
On his part, Enoidem said his decision to leave the PDP was based on the political reality in the state. He noted that most people in Akwa Ibom now align with the ruling party and that remaining in the opposition would not benefit the state.
The rally was attended by several political stakeholders, including members of the National Assembly, the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas), Obongemem Ekperikpe Ekpo, members of the State House of Assembly, State Executive Council members, local government chairmen, party leaders, as well as traditional and religious leaders.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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