2027: Akpabio Predicts Rivers, Bayelsa Governors Will Join APC After Umo Eno’s Defection
The political landscape in the South-South may be in for another major shift ahead of the 2027 general elections, as Senate President Godswill Akpabio has hinted that the governors of Rivers and Bayelsa states could soon defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Akpabio made the bold prediction in Uyo during the high-profile ceremony that officially welcomed Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, into the APC, marking his departure from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Tinubu, Shettima, Ganduje Lead Top APC Brass in Grand Reception
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, handed over the party’s flag to Eno at the event held at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium, affirming that the governor’s defection was both timely and strategic.
“This move is about unity, not division,” Shettima said. “You have made the right choice by aligning with the APC. You won’t be sidelined or alienated. This party is now your home.”
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APC National Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje described the defection as a significant step toward “national integration,” asserting that it will smoothBreaking: Tensions Escalate as US Strikes Iranian Nuclear Facilities the pathway for Akwa Ibom to attract direct federal interventions, particularly for stalled infrastructure projects like the Ibom Deep Sea Port.
He praised Eno for fostering stability in Akwa Ibom, noting that his performance in office and relationship with his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, are commendable.
South-South Will Back Tinubu in 2027 – Akpabio
Senate President Akpabio expressed strong optimism that the entire South-South would rally behind President Tinubu’s re-election bid.
“This isn’t just defection; this is a movement,” he declared. “After Akwa Ibom, Rivers will follow, then Bayelsa. In 2027, the South-South will speak with one voice for President Tinubu.”
His remarks signal an aggressive push by the APC to consolidate its influence in a region historically dominated by the PDP.
Umo Eno Explains His Defection
In his first public remarks since switching parties, Governor Umo Eno said the decision was not taken lightly but was driven by a desire to position Akwa Ibom for accelerated development and a stronger federal presence.
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“We are taking this bold step to draw real attention to long-abandoned federal projects in our state,” Eno said. “We have taken a risk, but one worth taking.”
A Star-Studded Political Affair
The event drew a who’s who of Nigeria’s political elite, including governors from Delta, Lagos, Cross River, Imo, Ebonyi, Kogi, Kebbi, Ekiti, Ondo, Edo, Kwara, and Gombe states, underlining the national importance of the moment.
As 2027 approaches, the political chessboard is clearly shifting, and all eyes are now on Rivers and Bayelsa—will Akpabio’s forecast come true?