UYO – Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has confirmed his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). He pointed to persistent leadership problems within the party. Governor Eno also highlighted a lack of clear ideological direction as a reason. News that Umo Eno leaves PDP spread after he spoke at a church service. A video of his remarks gained wide attention online.
“My leaving the party is no longer news,” Governor Eno stated directly. He voiced his concern over the PDP’s inability to unite. This disunity, he warned, could lead to him losing court cases about elections even after winning. “You cannot win an election after INEC takes your form, then still lose because the wrong official signed. I will not be foolish and continue that,” Eno asserted.
Open Support for President Tinubu
Despite his PDP affiliation, Governor Eno has frequently praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration. This open admiration has drawn criticism from his party members. “President Tinubu did not create the current situation we face,” Eno clarified, defending his respect for the president’s actions.
Governor Eno believes Nigerian political parties lack clear, distinct ideologies. “Show me any party in this country with clear ideological differences. I challenge anyone to a debate on this,” he declared. This belief, he explained, strengthens his commitment to the “Arise Agenda” for Akwa Ibom. He views this agenda as more important than party lines.
A Matter of Principle
Governor Eno also shared that he differs in approach from FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, known for directly confronting his party’s leadership. “I do not have Wike’s type of strength to confront anyone. I am a simple man by nature,” Eno admitted. For him, the decision that Umo Eno leaves PDP is a practical and principled one. “I cannot be in the PDP today and support a president from another party. That would clearly violate party rules,” he explained. He stressed his desire to avoid actions seen as anti-party conduct and political pretense. This stands as a core reason why Umo Eno leaves PDP.
By Abiodun Labi
