BREAKING NEWS: “I’m Leaving PDP—I Don’t Have Wike’s Strength” – Akwa Ibom Gov, Umo Eno

BREAKING NEWS: “I’m Leaving PDP—I Don’t Have Wike’s Strength” – Akwa Ibom Gov, Umo Eno

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has announced his intention to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).  

In a viral video, Eno revealed plans to defect to a party where he can openly commend President Bola Tinubu’s achievements without being accused of anti-party activities.  

The governor admitted he lacks the boldness of FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, who fearlessly confronts party issues, prompting his decision to exit the PDP. Despite being in the opposition, Eno has consistently praised Tinubu’s leadership.  

He blamed the PDP’s internal crisis for his move, stating he refuses to risk court battles after winning re-election.  

“It’s no longer news that I’m leaving the party. If you don’t know that by now, then I don’t know what else you know."

“As a PDP member, I love the party and wanted to stay, but there’s no clear roadmap to guarantee a smooth election. In Akwa Ibom, our work speaks for itself—even if we contest under no party, we’ll win. But at the national level, PDP is fractured. If you win an election but lose in court because of a technicality like a wrong signature, you lose everything. I won’t be foolish enough to stay in that situation."

“Parties in Nigeria lack ideological differences—unlike the U.S. Democrats. Our focus is the ARISE Agenda, and I support President Tinubu because he didn’t create Nigeria’s current challenges."

“I can’t be in PDP while supporting another party’s president without violating party rules. I don’t flip-flop. If I’m supporting Tinubu, I should join a party where I can freely praise his policies. I don’t have Wike’s strength to fight internal battles—I’m a simple man who speaks his mind.”

What are your thoughts on Governor Eno’s planned defection?