Senate President Akpabio endorses Akwa Ibom Governor, Eno, for second term

President of the Nigerian Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has endorsed Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, for a second term in office.

Eno was elected in 2023 under the platform of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) for a term of four years.

Two years to the next general elections, Akpabio, who belongs to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), says Eno, who is the governor of his home state, has done well to merit a continued stay in government house in 2027.

The governor Eno had earlier endorsed  President Bola Tinubu to continue beyond 2027.

Akpabio, speaking through his wife, Ekaette-Unoma, at a town square meeting convened by the governor at Ikot Ekpene stadium, he acknowledged “the numerous life-touching projects the governor has executed in the zone”, saying they qualify him for a second term in office.

He lauded the Governor for empowering the constituents with business grants.

The Senate President therefore, urged the constituents to work towards “supporting the Governor beyond 2027 irrespective of party affiliation.”

Also, on Thursday, while delivering a goodwill message at a public lecture organised by the Faculty of Social Science, University of Uyo, on Tuesday, Akpabio also gave the governor a nod for second term.

Represented by Saviour Enyiekere, chairperson of the National Assembly Service Commission, the Senate President declared that Eno “has shown governance, love and humility in all aspects.”

“Sir, for doing that, I am a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC). I am speaking for the elders and to tell you we are also going to support you for a second term.

“We will support you in whatever aspiration you have. Yesterday, you broke a record by being the first opposition governor to declare support for a second term bid of Mr (Bola) Tinubu,” he declared.

Governor Eno, an alumnus of the institution, who recently bagged a doctorate in political science with specialisation in public administration, was the guest lecturer at the ceremony.

He spoke on the theme “Leading Economic Development in Sub-Nationals of the Nigerian Federation, the Arise Agenda.”

Possible defection?

Governor Eno’s bromance with APC has triggered speculations that he could be on his way to the APC.

Mr. Sam Osung, a former aide to Governor Eno, wrote on his Facebook page: “I will discontinue my support for pastor Umo Eno if he follows Akpabio to the APC.”

Ezekiel Ebebe wrote: “All of a sudden, the APC people now see Umo Eno as the best governor.”

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