Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – Two members of the Akwa Ibom State Executive Council have publicly reaffirmed their allegiance to Governor Umo Eno following his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), amid swirling reports of internal dissent and possible resignations.
The Commissioner for Works and Fire Service, Professor Eno Ibanga, and the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Emem Almond Bob, have both debunked claims circulating on social media and local blogs suggesting they had opted not to follow the governor into his new political party.
‘Loyalty to the Governor Remains Sacrosanct’ – Ibanga
In an official statement issued by Evelyn Udobia, Information Officer of the Ministry of Works, Prof. Ibanga described the rumours of his resignation as "completely unfounded" and "politically motivated falsehoods."
“We wish to firmly and categorically debunk these allegations. Professor Eno Ibanga has not resigned and remains fully committed to his duties as Commissioner for Works and Fire Service,” the statement read.
“Let it be stated for the record that Professor Eno Ibanga’s loyalty to Governor Umo Eno and the administration remains sacrosanct.”
The statement emphasized that Prof. Ibanga continues to serve in his role with “unwavering dedication to the governor’s vision and development agenda.”
Emem Bob Aligns Fully with Eno’s Political Direction
Similarly, Mr. Emem Bob, Commissioner for Finance, dismissed resignation claims and clarified that he remains aligned with the governor’s leadership and his latest political decision.
Sources close to the finance commissioner confirmed that Mr. Bob has chosen to follow the governor into the APC, highlighting his belief in continuity and stability within the state’s governance structure.
“Mr. Emem Bob is not only staying in office but is also fully aligned with the governor’s new political direction,” a senior government official said under condition of anonymity.
Contrast with Ememobong’s Resignation
The affirmations by both commissioners stand in contrast to the position taken by Dr. Ini Ememobong, the now-former Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port, who officially resigned from his post shortly after Governor Eno announced his defection.
In a widely circulated resignation letter, Ememobong stated:
“Ipso facto, based on my personal conviction, I will be unable to join the All Progressives Congress. I hereby most respectfully tender my resignation as Honourable Commissioner… and a member of the State Executive Council.”
His decision has drawn mixed reactions from political observers in the state, with some praising his principled stance and others questioning the timing of his departure.
Governor Eno’s High-Profile Defection to the APC
Governor Umo Eno made headlines on Friday when he formally declared his move to the APC at an event held at the Government House in Uyo. The event was graced by top APC figures, including Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River, and Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State.
Also present was Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President, adding further political weight to the occasion.
In his announcement, Governor Eno explained that the decision came after extensive consultation across party lines and with key stakeholders in the state and beyond.
“After completing the rounds of my consultation as your servant whom you have elected to serve, I have therefore decided to progressively move to the APC,” he said, signaling what could be a significant realignment in the state’s political landscape.
Political Reconfiguration Underway
Governor Eno’s defection has triggered a wave of speculation about the future of the PDP in Akwa Ibom, which had dominated the state’s politics for over two decades. Analysts suggest that his departure may pave the way for more resignations or realignments within the state cabinet and legislature.
However, the public reaffirmation of loyalty by key commissioners such as Prof. Ibanga and Mr. Bob indicates that Eno may retain a substantial portion of his cabinet team, at least for now.
As the state navigates this unfolding political transition, attention remains focused on whether other top officials will stay the course or follow Dr. Ememobong’s path.
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