Ahead of the 2023 governorship election, major political stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), in Uyo Local Government area who recently defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), have endorsed Pastor Umo Eno, the party’s candidate in Akwa Ibom State.
Arising from a meeting with Pastor Eno and members of the Umo Eno/Akon Eyakenyi Campaign Organization, the delegation of defectors led by a former Chairman of Uyo LGA, Hon Ekerette Ekpeyong said they were impressed by the unparalleled humility and sincerity of Pastor Eno whom they described as the best man for the Hilltop Mansion in 2023.
In his remarks, Hon. Ekerette Ekpeyong recalled the peaceful and sincere approach of Pastor Eno in resolving the issues at the Ifa Ikot Okpon government (Emily) Estate that had lingered for years untill his assumption of office as the Commissioner for Lands and Water Resources, adding that the sincerity and humility of Pastor Eno were worthy of emulation.
According to him, “All through my life, I have been looking for competent hands to run the affairs of Akwa Ibom and one of those men is Pastor Umo Eno, and the Bible says when you see the sign you follow, and I am following the signs.
“We came here today to inform Pastor Umo Eno that we have taken the decision to join the PDP.
” We are also here to ensure that Umo Eno wins convincingly in 2023; and we are representative of very many others that are waiting for us because we couldn’t come here with the entire structure.
” With Umo Eno, we are very convinced that Akwa Ibom will be greater and everyone will be happy for it.”
The former council chairman and House of Representatives candidate under the APC stressed that it was unprecedented in the history of Uyo for all the stakeholders to unite for a common goal, adding that the Governor Udom Emmanuel-led administration has been peaceful, impactful and eventful.
“We are here today to publicly affirm our decision to support His Excellency Gov. Udom Emmanuel to finish strong by mobilizing all structures in support of the PDP candidate, Pastor Umo Eno who has the much-needed capacity, character and competence to effectively administer the affairs of our dear state in the next dispensation,” he stated.
Responding, Pastor Eno commended the courage of the Uyo political stakeholders and appreciated their support which he said was a source of motivation and morale booster.
The visibly elated governorship hopeful seized the opportunity to reel out his plans for Akwa Ibom, assuring them of inclusion, accessibility and committed service to the people.
“I want to assure you that your support for me and the PDP shall not be in vain. I have promised Akwa Ibom people to run politics of inclusion, accessibility, and reward in terms of provision of democracy dividends.
” Therefore, your efforts to ensure our success shall not end in futility as we must deliver on the promises we have made to Akwa Ibom people,” he affirmed.
Speaking with newsmen shortly after the event, the political leader of Uyo and secretary of Campaigns, Prince Enobong Uwah said it was simply a movement of major political stakeholders of Uyo LGA including three former LGA chairmen to declare support for Pastor Umo Eno, stressing that it was a major boost for the PDP in Akwa Ibom State.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Environment and Solid Minerals, Sir Charles Udo said it was a dream come true to see the sons and daughters of Uyo uniting for a common cause, adding that the event has amplified the fact that PDP is a religion in the state.
On his part, Uyo LGA Chairman, Dr Uwemedimo Udoh who expressed delight concerning what had happened also confirmed that it was beyond mere defection but a movement, saying the quality of people who have returned to the PDP was encouraging given their track record in grassroots mobilization.
The high point of the event was the appointment of Hon. Ekerete Ekpenyong into the Umo Eno/Akon Eyakenyi Campaign Council, and the presentation of the ARISE Agenda to the delegation.
At the meeting were the member representing Etinan Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. (Barr). Onofiok Luke, Commissioner for Power, Hon. John James Etim, member representing Uyo State Constituency, Hon. Anietie Ekah, the Chairman, Local Government Service Commission, Hon. Monday Eyo, and SSA to the Governor, Isantim Kenneth Okon.
