Marking a significant shift in the political landscape of Akwa Ibom State, the lawmaker representing Itu/Ibiono Ibom Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Ime Bassey Okon, has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and declared his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). 

His decision, which became effective on June 6, 2025, follows what he described as “a careful period of consultations with constituents and key political stakeholders,” and reflects his growing dissatisfaction with the protracted internal divisions and leadership instability within the PDP. 

In a statement confirming the move, Rt. Hon. Okon cited the factionalisation and structural weaknesses of the PDP as major reasons for his exit, stating that the party no longer offers a viable platform for effective governance or people-oriented representation. 

He emphasized that his defection was not driven by personal ambition, but by a sincere desire to align with a national agenda focused on transformation, economic revitalization, and inclusive development. According to him, joining the APC represents a strategic step toward ensuring more meaningful federal engagement for the Itu/Ibiono Ibom constituency. He expressed strong support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, commending the administration’s commitment to reforms in infrastructure, youth empowerment, education, and economic diversification. 

Rt. Hon. Okon, who is widely respected for his accessibility and grassroots-focused approach, reaffirmed his dedication to delivering quality representation and championing development initiatives that directly impact his constituents. He also noted that his loyalty lies first with the people who elected him, not with party structures that have become dysfunctional and divisive. The APC in Akwa Ibom State has welcomed his defection as a major political gain and a sign of the growing appeal of the ruling party in the South-South region. 

Party stakeholders described his entry as a positive step that strengthens the APC’s presence in Itu/Ibiono Ibom and adds momentum to its consolidation efforts ahead of the 2027 elections. Political observers believe that Rt. Hon. Okon’s move could trigger further realignments in the state’s political environment, as more leaders seek platforms that guarantee both political stability and developmental partnership with the centre. 

With this defection, Rt. Hon. Ime Okon joins the expanding list of high-ranking legislators who have embraced the APC as a vehicle for national cohesion and progressive change, reinforcing the party’s strategic positioning in regions once considered opposition strongholds.