Umo Eno’s defection to APC: A strategic move for Akwa Ibom’s economic transformation

Emmanuel Nicholas

A few days ago, I was traveling from Uyo to Ede Obom in Nsit Ibom Local Government Area to witness the progress of the construction of Urua Ekpo Nwa, a transshipment centre for agricultural products.

The contracting firm has done an admirable job, as most of the structures have been completed, with many already at the roofing stage.

Today, however, I do not wish to focus on the market itself. Instead, I would like to engage with the people of Akwa Ibom who called into a local FM programme to express their views regarding the expectations of the populace from the Federal Government, especially in light of Governor Umo Eno’s recent voluntary defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

During my 24-minute journey back to Uyo, many callers articulated a recurring and rather contentious notion: that the promise of the Ibom Sea Port is merely a deceptive ploy intended to compel the Governor into joining the APC.

For instance, Professor Edem Paul, one of the callers, opined that the President, being Yoruba, is unlikely to share the wealth of South-Western Nigeria equitably with the South-South region and Akwa Ibom State in particular.

Furthermore, numerous callers lamented that the Senate President, despite holding the third-highest position in Nigeria’s leadership hierarchy for the past two years, has failed to bring any tangible, economically driven infrastructure projects to Akwa Ibom State.

They argued that if he has been unable to leverage his influential position to benefit the state, it raises serious doubts about what a Governor could realistically achieve under similar circumstances.

The people of Akwa Ibom State undoubtedly possess the legitimate right to express their grievances and advocate for their developmental needs; however, I contend that their current agitation is somewhat premature.

Moreover, to categorically accuse the Senate President of failing to bring any economically driven infrastructure projects to Akwa Ibom State is an overly judgmental and unfounded assertion.

Under the astute leadership of Senator Godswill Akpabio, several significant federal institutions have been established within the state. Notably, the Federal University of Science and Technology in Ikot Abasi stands as a testament to his commitment to advancing higher education and technological development. Additionally, the Federal Government College of Education in Ididep, Ibiono Local Government Area, has been instituted, further enhancing educational opportunities.

Furthermore, the forthcoming University of Agriculture in Obio Akpa promises to bolster agricultural education and research, which is vital for the State’s economic growth.

It is also important to recognize that, without Senator Akpabio’s dedicated leadership and advocacy, the South-South Development Commission might not have been located in Akwa Ibom State.

This commission is poised to create employment opportunities for hundreds of Akwa Ibom indigenes across various sectors, thereby contributing significantly to the socio-economic upliftment of the state.

Consequently, the sweeping accusation that Senator Akpabio has not attracted any form of economic development to Akwa Ibom State cannot be substantiated when one considers the tangible and visible institutions that owe their existence to his efforts.

Therefore, when engaging in criticism, we must approach the matter with objectivity and honesty, refraining from making condemnations rooted in personal animosity or unfounded hatred.

Constructive critique should be grounded in facts and fairness, ensuring that discourse remains respectful and productive.

Regarding the Ibom Sea Port project, one can profoundly comprehend the deep-seated yearning and earnest desperation of the people of Akwa Ibom State.

For the past three decades, the collective aspiration of every citizen has been to witness the realization of this transformative initiative, an ambitious endeavour poised to serve as a monumental game changer for the State’s economic and infrastructural landscape.

Tragically, many individuals who fervently hoped to see this project come to fruition have since passed away, never having the opportunity to witness its actualization.

Initially conceived as the Ibom Deep Sea Port, the project was subsequently renamed by the Federal Government as the Ibom Deep Sea Port, reflecting its elevated national significance and strategic importance.

Despite the prolonged wait and numerous challenges, the people of Akwa Ibom are encouraged to maintain unwavering faith in divine providence, as well as confidence in their leadership.

It was a momentous and heartfelt decision by Governor Umo Eno, PhD, to defect from a well-established and structured political platform to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a party that, until recently, had been marred by internal factionalism and divisions.

This factionalism had significantly contributed to the party’s previous inability to secure an electoral victory in the State.

Governor Umo Eno’s political realignment represents not only a substantial personal sacrifice but also embodies a strategic move imbued with high economic expectations for the future of Akwa Ibom.

Contrary to the misconceptions and criticisms aired on certain radio programmes suggesting that the Governor was misled, the assurances and commitments underpinning this decision were transparently and comprehensively presented before a broad spectrum of Akwa Ibom leaders, ensuring collective understanding and support.

President Ahmed Bola Tinubu stands as a leader of integrity and trustworthiness; his words are steadfast, and his commitments unwavering. His profound affection and dedication to Akwa Ibom State are evident in his efforts to facilitate the elevation of our distinguished son, Senator Godswill Akpabio, GCON, to the prestigious position of Senate President of Nigeria, a proof of the President’s genuine support for the State’s advancement.

Looking ahead, the President has solemnly pledged that the national budget for the year 2026 will fully incorporate the commencement of the construction of the Ibom Deep Sea Port.

In alignment with this promise, Governor Umo Eno has already inaugurated the dualization of the 13.6-kilometer access road project leading to the port, with construction progress having surpassed 40 percent completion.

This milestone marks a significant step forward in realizing the long-awaited vision of the Ibom Sea Port, heralding a new era of economic prosperity and infrastructural development for Akwa Ibom State.

What compelled Governor Umo Eno, PhD, to defect to the APC was not a pursuit of personal comfort, but rather a profound commitment to enhancing the well-being and comfort of his people. This noble motivation drove him to step out of his comfort zone and embrace the opportunity to rejuvenate the APC.

His transition is poised to usher in numerous developmental projects for Akwa Ibom State. Among these initiatives is the establishment of a Deep Sea Port, alongside plans to construct an NNPC depot within the state, following a thorough assessment of the state’s crude oil contributions to the federal government.

Furthermore, the administration of President Ahmed Tinubu has pledged to facilitate the construction of several roads in Akwa Ibom State and has recently approved the development of a private refinery in one of the coastal local government areas.

Governor Umo Eno’s decision to join the APC should not be misconstrued as a sign of weakness; rather, it ought to be recognized as a mark of sacrifice, driven by a sincere intention to improve the lives of his constituents and to elevate the economic stature of Akwa Ibom State.

It is no simple feat for an individual who possesses great peace and comfort to willingly relinquish such security and embrace the uncertainties that come with political leadership.

Governor Umo Eno has courageously undertaken this significant political risk, prioritizing the collective economic prosperity and well-being of the entire people of Akwa Ibom State above his comfort.

As the great leader Nelson Mandela once said, “A leader is like a shepherd. He stays behind the flock, letting the most nimble go out ahead, whereupon the others follow, not realizing that all along they are being directed from behind.”

This profound sacrifice exemplifies the true essence of leadership, placing the interests of the people above one’s own, even when it demands personal sacrifice and the embrace of uncertainty for the greater good.