A wave of political resignations has rocked the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council following Governor Umo Eno’s high-profile defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
At least three commissioners have formally stepped down from their positions, citing their inability to align with the governor’s new political direction. The development marks a dramatic shift in the state's political landscape, which has been dominated by the PDP since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.
Governor Eno officially joined the APC on Friday, a move that triggered swift reactions from within his cabinet. Prior to the defection, the governor had issued a stern ultimatum to members of his cabinet, urging those not willing to follow him into the APC to voluntarily vacate their offices.
During a closed-door State Executive Council meeting held two weeks before his defection, Governor Eno reportedly stated:
“By now, it’s no longer a secret that I’m moving. If anyone among you is still unaware, then I wonder what you’re paying attention to. For clarity, commissioners, political appointees, and other Exco members if you’re not prepared to join me, you are entirely free not to. But let me be clear: you cannot remain in my cabinet and act contrary to my political direction. I won’t compel you to come along, and you shouldn’t expect me to.”
Following this directive, three high-profile commissioners resigned their positions within hours of the official announcement of Eno's defection. They include:
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Dr. Ini Ememobong – Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport
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Prof. Eno Ibanga – Commissioner for Works and Fire Service
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Mr. Emem Bob – Commissioner for Finance
Dr. Ini Ememobong confirmed his resignation through a post on his official Facebook page. He explained that his decision was directly tied to the governor’s instruction and his own long-standing political convictions.
“In line with the governor’s directive that those unwilling to accompany him to the APC should resign, I have today tendered my resignation,” he wrote.
“While I respect the governor’s personal decision to change political platforms, I cannot in good conscience make the same choice. My political ideology does not align with the APC, and I believe in politics that is guided by principle. That belief remains unshaken.”
He went on to express deep respect for Governor Eno, emphasizing that his decision was strictly political and not personal.
“This resignation in no way affects the mutual respect and personal relationship I share with the governor. He has been a brother and a mentor who entrusted me with key roles in his administration. I remain grateful and will always wish him well, even outside the Executive Council.”
The resignations have drawn national attention, as they highlight the growing tensions and ideological divisions that can accompany political realignments in Nigeria. Observers say this could be the beginning of a broader reshuffling within the Akwa Ibom political space, especially as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
Meanwhile, sources close to the State Government House indicate that more resignations may follow in the coming days as other cabinet members weigh their political futures.
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