Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has stirred speculation of a potential political shift after casting doubt on the viability of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a platform for his political ambitions beyond 2027.

Speaking at a constituency outreach event in Ukanafun Local Government Area on Tuesday, Governor Eno likened the PDP to a faulty aircraft, suggesting he may be open to exploring other political avenues — a metaphor many interpret as a subtle signal of a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

“If you wanted to travel with Ibom Airline, and on the verge of taking off, it developed a fault that won’t enable it to fly, won’t you board the next available plane to take you to your destination?” Eno asked during the Town Square meeting for the Ukanafun/Oruk Anam federal constituency.

The governor’s remarks come at a time of growing instability within the PDP, further highlighted by recent high-profile defections, including that of Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to the APC. While Eno has not formally declared any intention to leave the PDP, his comments have intensified political chatter across Akwa Ibom and beyond.

Despite raising concerns about his party’s trajectory, the governor called on his supporters to remain focused on the state government’s development agenda. “Governance doesn’t end at elections,” Eno stated. “We’re here to listen, to assess your needs, and to let you know what we’ve done and what we plan to do.”

As part of the outreach, Governor Eno distributed a series of empowerment packages to over 400 constituents. These included:

  • Grants to 154 traders
  • Support for 116 farmers
  • Business development funding of ₦5 million each to four beneficiaries
  • Equipment assistance for 131 individuals

He urged recipients to invest wisely and avoid risky ventures like Ponzi schemes. “Use these funds to improve your lives and communities,” he advised.

Governor Eno also revealed that four of the state’s 10 federal constituencies have so far been covered in his administration’s ongoing grassroots engagement drive. He assured constituents that all would be reached in time for their needs to be considered in the 2026 state budget.

“We will review your requests and prioritize based on available resources,” he said. “This government belongs to the people—it is for you, with you, and by you.”