The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is once again facing turbulence as key figures within its ranks, including Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno and members of its Board of Trustees (BoT), are reportedly considering a move to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Sources close to the development revealed that former Senator Effiong Bob, who represented Akwa Ibom North Central from 2007 to 2011 and chaired the Senate Committee on Finance, is finalizing plans to defect to the ruling APC after nearly three decades with the PDP.
Bob’s move is said to be driven by frustration over lingering internal crises within the PDP, including the unresolved dispute over the position of National Secretary. Insiders say his decision reflects growing concerns about the party’s structural weaknesses and legal uncertainties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We cannot afford the Zamfara mistake,” a close associate said, alluding to the 2019 scenario where APC lost all seats in Zamfara due to flawed primaries.
Bob’s imminent defection is expected to trigger a wider exodus from the PDP in Akwa Ibom, akin to the recent wave of defections in Delta State.
Governor Umo Eno Mulls Exit
Adding to the party’s worries, multiple sources say Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, is also weighing his options. The governor has reportedly held several private meetings and is said to be awaiting a green light from his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, before making any public declaration.
Governor Eno’s public alignment with President Bola Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio has intensified speculations about his loyalty to the PDP.
PDP Youth Leader Fires Back
Reacting to the wave of defections, PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Comrade Timothy Osadolor, offered a stinging rebuke to potential defectors.
“Any BoT member, governor, or senator planning to defect should do so now. If it’s transport fare they lack, they should come to Wadata Plaza — we’ll assist them,” Osadolor said.
He argued that the PDP would rather rebuild with committed loyalists than retain opportunists, whom he described as “worms destroying the tree from within.”
Osadolor also emphasized that electoral success lies in grassroots support rather than the presence of high-ranking individuals.
“The people will judge their actions. History will decide if their defection is born of integrity or political self-interest,” he added.
As the PDP grapples with this latest round of internal discontent, political watchers are closely monitoring Akwa Ibom for what could become a major realignment ahead of 2027.
