•Governor Umo Eno
Governor Eno has reiterated that his movement from the Peoples’ Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was informed by enlightened state interest.
Governor Eno who spoke at a grand reception for him by the national leadership of the APC said those who may not fully understand the merits behind the decision at the moment, will, in the nearest future, appreciate it.
He appreciated Akwa Ibom people for their support and for acting in the best tradition of the sons of Issachar who did not only understand the signs of time, but also understood what to do.
The governor also appreciated the views of the few dissenting voices against the decision, saying, “While I deeply respect the emotions and sentiments of some of our people who have elected not to join me on this progressive journey for now, I want to state that strategic decisions are based on evolving realities which demands that the future and collective interest of our state must be taken above all other considerations.
“Let me assure all Akwa Ibom people, that regardless of my political alignment, I will remain a Governor for all Akwa Ibomites as we continue to implement progressively the ARISE Agenda which is our social contract with the Akwa Ibom people.
“Today, we step out bold, fearless, brave, courageous and happy for this is an uncommon but a progressive move from a position of strength, for we are neither afraid of the future nor afraid of the storms ahead, but will focus on sailing the ship of Akwa Ibom State for we have in our boat, He who can calm every storm, He who can lead in every warfare, He who has gone before us and has brought us the victory, His name is Jesus Christ, the son of the living God. He has never lost any battle and never misdirected His people.
“We are not afraid to join the APC for we know that with the APC, we will realise our deep seaport and that is our plea. For over 30 years, Akwa Ibom State has struggled to have a deep seaport, today we are reassured that the federal government will show us the order of reciprocity by helping us to realise our deep seaport.
“Akwa Ibom has the longest draught, 19 meters deep that doesn’t need dredging. We have struggled as a state but I believe we have struggled enough. I believe that our president, who is a man of his words, will honour us, even if it is one terminal, this movement would have been justified.
Speaking further, he said, “Akwa Ibom people look with hope, and look unto the president and the federal government, as the bride looks unto the face of her groom. This movement will be the beginning of a new dawn for Akwa Ibom State in terms of infrastructure and projects that would make us to be seen as having taken a good decision. We have taken a risk by joining our son, the Distinguished Senate President, to work with him and deliver our president in 2027. But every risk also has a reward and we know that Akwa Ibomites everywhere around the world will be happy that this marriage has brought us goodwill.”
The governor paid glowing tribute to all past governors of the state and their contributions to the development of the state beginning from Obong Victor Atah, through Senator Godswill Akpabio, to Deacon Udom Emmanuel.
He described the movement as a risk, with the hope for the realisation of the Ibom deep seaport as its premium.
Governor Eno appreciated President Tinubu for his liberal release of funds to states, which he said has enabled Akwa Ibom State to embark on different projects across the state without owing any bank.
While calling on all factions of the APC in the state to close ranks for common good, he declared support for the re-election of the president in 2027 as well as the re-election of Senator Godswill Akpabio.
