By Chioma Onuegbu, Uyo

UYO — An unusual calm has enveloped Akwa Ibom’s political landscape as residents and political observers await the anticipated defection of Governor Umo Eno from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Widespread speculation in Uyo suggests that the governor is expected to formally announce his defection today, Friday, June 6, 2025. The move, if confirmed, would mark a major political shift in the state and test the loyalties of PDP stakeholders, elders, appointees, and supporters—many of whom have remained notably silent in recent weeks.

The expected announcement has also stirred curiosity about which key figures will join the governor in crossing over to the APC, and which will remain with the PDP. Equally significant is how Governor Eno’s consultations have been received, especially amid reports that some aggrieved APC chieftains have been considering a return to their former party, the PDP.

The PDP camp has remained unusually quiet, especially in the last few weeks, with prominent voices and party elders choosing to stay mute on the matter. Political watchers in the state interpret this silence as a mix of disappointment and astonishment, particularly given the governor’s longstanding affiliation with the PDP.

Fueling the intrigue were reports that many of the governor’s Special Assistants (SAs), Senior Special Assistants (SSAs), and Personal Assistants (PAs) may not follow him to the APC. This led to speculation that the governor’s recent move to double the monthly allowance of his 368 ward PAs from ₦250,000 to ₦500,000, effective November 2024, was a strategic effort to consolidate loyalty ahead of the defection.

Further, Governor Eno recently announced the resumption of the state’s free food distribution program set to begin in June 2025, targeting the most vulnerable communities. Many see this as part of his broader effort to bolster support among the grassroots.

Speaking on behalf of the ward PAs, their Dean, Aniefiok James, expressed gratitude to the governor, stating: “We are overwhelmed by the governor’s benevolence and deep commitment to our welfare and the general well-being of Akwa Ibom people. I pledge our unwavering support to the ARISE Agenda and the governor’s political future.”

However, when contacted, several SSAs and PAs declined to comment on their stance regarding the defection.

Meanwhile, political analysts and residents alike are closely watching for a possible mass defection of PDP members and supporters once the governor’s move to the APC becomes official.