The Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has reacted to the recent defection of Governor Umo Eno and key members of his administration to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the party as “intact and unshaken.”
Governor Eno’s defection, which occurred on June 6, 2025, at the Government House in Uyo, saw the presence of several APC governors, party stakeholders, and a wave of political appointees pledging allegiance to the ruling party.
Breaking its silence on the matter, the PDP issued a formal statement on Monday through its State Publicity Secretary, Edwin Ebiese, affirming that the party remains resolute despite the political shift.
“To the esteemed members and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State, it is with utmost respect and sincerity that I address you today. Following the June 6, 2025, defection, our party faithful have eagerly awaited our response. We appreciate the concern and loyalty that have characterized your wait,” the statement began.
Ebiese explained that the delay in response was a calculated move aimed at maintaining internal stability and gathering broad consensus across the party’s hierarchy before speaking publicly.
The statement reads in full:
To the esteemed members and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Akwa Ibom State, it is with utmost respect and sincerity that I address you today. Following the June 6, 2025, defection, our party faithful have eagerly awaited our response. We appreciate the concern and loyalty that have characterized your wait.
As prudent stewards of our party’s legacy and future, we deemed it wise and strategic to first engage in comprehensive internal consultations. This deliberate approach allowed us to convene with our party structure and stakeholders, ensuring alignment and informed decision-making before issuing any public statement.
To this end, we embarked on a meticulous series of meetings, starting with our State Working Committee, followed by the Party Executive Committee (EXCO), Chapter Chairmen, and Ward Chairmen across the three Senatorial Districts of Eket, Ikot Ekpene, and Uyo. Additionally, we held a crucial meeting with the staff of the party secretariat, thereby covering the entire spectrum of our organizational hierarchy.
These meetings recorded 100% attendance, providing a platform for introspection, problem-solving, and strategic recalibration, enabling us to address internal dynamics. The outcome of these deliberations reaffirmed our collective resolve, underscoring that our party remains 100% INTACT AND UNSHAKEN.
We apologize for any perceived delay in issuing this statement. However, we firmly believe that our decision to prioritize internal cohesion and strategic alignment was essential. Our public message now accurately reflects the collective opinion and resolve of our party structure.
As we continue to strategize for a stronger party, we will share our plans for further strengthening our party structure and advancing our mission in future communications. Rest assured that we are committed to building a robust and resilient party that will continue to serve the people of Akwa Ibom State and Nigeria.
To our faithful members, supporters, and the general public, we reiterate our commitment to the principles of democracy and good governance. We remain steadfast in our resolve to work tirelessly towards the protection of our great party in Akwa Ibom State and beyond.
Thank you for your understanding, loyalty, and continued support.
Long Live the PDP!
Long Live Akwa Ibom State!
PDP!!!
Power To The People
Sincerely,
Edwin Ebiese MNSE MNIMechE ANIPR
Publicity Secretary,
Peoples Democratic Party, Akwa Ibom State.
16th June 2025