UYO: Elected local government councillors in Akwa Ibom State have strongly opposed Governor Umo Eno’s planned defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the AllProgressives Congress (APC). The councillors say they will not follow the governor unless he directly consults with them.
According to a senior member of the Forum of Elected Councillors, who spoke anonymously, the governor has failed to engage them in discussions about his defection plan.
They described the lack of consultation as disrespectful and humiliating, especially considering their role as elected grassroots representatives. Nobody has consulted us about defecting to APC. We were elected by our people and deserve to be part of such major political decisions, the councillor stated.
Many of the councillors emphasized that they are currently in strong positions within the PDP due to political zoning arrangements that favor their re-election bids in 2027.
Moving to APC, they fear, could jeopardize those chances, especially as the opposition party has its own internal structure and candidates.
They expressed disappointment that while Governor Umo Eno has reportedly held talks with national and state assembly members, local government chairmen, and other political stakeholders, he has ignored ward councillors.
They see this as a snub to their contributions and influence at the grassroots level. We cannot convince our constituents to follow the governor to APC without clear reasons. We were elected, not appointed, and must represent our people’s interests,” another councillor added.
The councillors stressed that elections are won in polling units, not in Government House, and as such, their role in determining electoral outcomes should not be underestimated.
Their frustration also stems from the belief that the governor is underestimating their political value. They insist that any political move that excludes ward-level representatives is incomplete and unlikely to succeed at the grassroots.
Some councillors reportedly feel sidelined despite being key players during the governor’s election and believe their loyalty is being taken for granted.
They warned that unless Governor Eno opens proper dialogue with them, they will remain in the PDP and pursue their political future within the part
Reacting to the councillors’ position, a serving commissioner who requested anonymity said the governor had already secured the support of more senior stakeholders, including local government chairmen.
The official argued that councillors have no compelling reason to demand special consultation, suggesting that most did not win their elections based on personal popularity but through the party’s strength.
The governor is not forcing anyone to defect. He’s consulting those who matter most in the broader political strategy, the commissioner noted.
This development comes amid increasing political tension in Akwa Ibom, with several high-profile resignations and party switches ahead of the 2027 elections.
The disagreement between the governor and councilors highlights a growing divide within the PDP at the state level, especially at the grassroots.
As the 2027 election cycle approaches, all eyes are on how the internal politics of Akwa Ibom will unfold, and whether Governor Umo Eno can maintain his political base amidst opposition from within.
