Akwa Ibom State governor, Umo Emo, says his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) does not affect his cordial relationship with his political godfather and predecessor, Udom Emmanuel.
Eno, who was elected into office under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), officially announced his move to the APC in June, citing months of consultations with stakeholders across the state.
Speaking on Monday during a pro-APC rally in Eket, the governor maintained that his defection was in the interest of Akwa Ibom and not a betrayal of his political mentor.
“Let me make it abundantly clear that there is no issue between me and my political father, former governor Udom Emmanuel. There is no issue whatsoever,” Eno said.
“We have moved in the best interest of Akwa Ibom state for today so that we can pull our support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. That does not cause any confusion.”
Ebo, who was handpicked by Udom to succeed him in 2023, said the political alignment with the APC has not disrupted their personal relationship.
“I visit him, I talk with him, and we are still together. I am his political son. He brought me out to run for governor. And so, he will always earn our respect, our support, and I’d like to make that assurance,” he said.
Eno’s defection had sparked speculation about a possible rift with Emmanuel, a staunch PDP figure and former banker who served two terms as governor from 2015 to 2023. But he said such claims were unfounded and politically motivated.
