RismadarVoice Media, December 9, 2025
The political atmosphere in Akwa Ibom State has been charged with debates, suspicions and unanswered questions, following Governor Umo Eno’s mid year defection from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress.
For many Akwa Ibomites, this move has not only stirred up controversies, rather reopened old conversations about political sincerity, governance priorities and the future of the Ibom Deep Seaport.
During the campaigns, Governor Eno made strong statements regarding the Deep Seaport, insisting emphatically that, the project was impossible under the current federal leadership. Those statements became campaign tools that shaped public perception and political alignment in the state.
Fast forward to late 2025, Governor Eno’s defection to the APC has raised eyebrows. For many people, the shift is interpreted as a strategic realignment – aimed at securing political advantage ahead of 2027. Others see it as a contradiction of his initial positions, especially as the Ibom Deep Seaport was a major factor used to justify the political move.
A Growing Perception of Inconsistency
Whether rightly or wrongly, a section of Akwa Ibomites now believe that the Governor’s recent political decisions reflect inconsistency, lack of clarity on the state’s long term priorities.
The concern is not necessarily about party politics. Akwa Ibom has seen leaders work across party lines, but the appearance of double standards in the Governor’s public statements has deepened public suspicion.
A leader, particularly one who identifies as a pastor, is expected to demonstrate consistency, transparency, commitment to the promises made to the people. Critics argue that Governor Eno has not matched his earlier declarations with his recent political actions. Even within his circle of appointees, there are murmurs about shifting priorities and reduced confidence.
What Becomes of the Ibom Deep Seaport?
Governor Eno’s defection speech did not give a firm commitment on the Deep Seaport. This has left many wondering, whether the project which has significant economic implications for the state still stand as a priority or has become a political bargaining tool.
For a state yearning for industrial expansion, job creation and infrastructural transformation, uncertainty over such major project fuels public concern.
The Bigger Question:
Governor Umo Eno’s political decisions have opened a conversation that Akwa Ibomites deserve clarity on:
Who exactly is Umo Eno.
What does he truly represent.
And where does the interest of Akwa Ibom stand in his current political journey.
In a democratic setting, citizens have the right to question their leaders, especially when political moves appear misaligned with earlier commitments. The people of Akwa Ibom are not asking for perfection. They are demanding consistency, transparency and accountability.
Until the governor provides clear answers, the public will continue to ask questions that are necessary!
