Uyo, Akwa Ibom State – 1 August 2025
Introduction
Rt. Hon. (Obongemem) Ekperikpe Ekpo, Minister of State for Petroleum Resources (Gas) and a senior APC leader in Akwa Ibom, has pledged unwavering support to Governor Umo Eno, the new leader of the party in the state.
Background
Governor Umo Eno recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His defection received national backing from key party figures including then National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje and Senate President Chief Godswill Akpabio, GCON.
Event
On Friday, 1 August 2025, as part of his ongoing familiarisation tour, Governor Eno visited the APC State Party Secretariat at Ekpo Obot Street, Uyo. He was accompanied by his Deputy, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, and other government officials. The visit aimed to engage party stakeholders and reaffirm party unity.
Speeches and Key Statements
- Ekperikpe Ekpo’s Address:
Ekpo highlighted the unity within the party, stating, “In seeing the calibre of those gathered here, it is clear Akwa Ibom is truly unified, across all divides and generations. Wherever you lead, we will follow.”
He also noted the party’s strengthened position in the state: “Today, we have a governor, a minister, senators, and a Senate President.”
Ekpo appealed for continued support for Governor Eno, Senate President Akpabio, and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration beyond 2027. - Obong Stephen Ntukekpo’s Welcome:
The State APC Chairman formally welcomed Governor Eno to the party headquarters, praising his boldness and foresight in joining the APC. - Governor Umo Eno’s Remarks:
Governor Eno emphasised the importance of the party, saying, “Today’s visit is part of our continuous engagement with the party. We started by interfacing with its structures and stakeholders. Now, we are here at the secretariat—demonstrating that the party remains supreme.”
He announced the formation of a committee to oversee the construction of a new party secretariat, chaired by Sir Monday Uko, with key members including Ekperikpe Ekpo, Obong Nsima Ekere, Senator Ita Enang, and Rt. Hon. Unyime Idem.
Conclusion
The event underscored a renewed commitment to party unity and strategic growth within Akwa Ibom’s APC under Governor Eno’s leadership.
