By Swill Mauva
The defection of Governor Umo Eno from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) has again brought about questions on the character and integrity of Nigerian politicians. As a governor who rose to power on the platform of the PDP, Eno’s decision to jump ship has been met with widespread criticism and outrage. The phrase “E tu Brute,” a nod to Julius Caesar’s infamous statement, aptly captures the sentiment of many Nigerians and, indeed, Akwa Ibomites in particular, who feel betrayed by Eno’s actions.
The decamping of some first-term PDP governors to APC is becoming a bandwagon effect, with Eno following in the footsteps of Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori. However, questions are being asked about the motivations behind these defections. Are they altruistic and in the best interest of their states, or is it a case of self-preservation arising from the fear of being rigged out in the 2027 election?
The answer, it seems, lies in the latter. These governors know that the APC is desperate and dangerous, and would stop at nothing to retain power. With the Police, INEC, and the Judiciary under the control of Tinubu and APC, it’s clear that any state governor who opposes the party’s interests would be rigged out. It’s a signal that these governors have chosen to prioritize their own survival over the interests of their states and the people who elected them.
As a pastor, Eno ought to have kept faith with the platform that brought him to power. Instead, his decision to defect raises questions about his character. Only recently, his first daughter, Jane Edidiong Ufot, accused him on social media of sacrificing her late mother, Patience Oluwakemi Eno, for rituals. This, coupled with his order compelling his aides to decamp with him or resign their appointments, paints a picture of a man driven by self-interest rather than a desire to serve the people.
The fanfare with which Tinubu welcomed Eno to the APC, yesterday, is a clear indication that the party is eager to consolidate its power. However, Nigerians must not be fooled. The implications of these defections go beyond politics; they have real-life consequences for the people of Akwa Ibom and other states affected.
Governor Umo Eno’s defection to APC is a betrayal of trust that raises serious questions about his character and motivations. As Nigerians, we must demand better behavior from our leaders and hold them accountable for their actions. The people of Akwa Ibom deserve better than a governor who prioritizes his own survival over their interests.
The trend of defections from PDP to APC has significant implications for Nigeria’s democracy. It suggests that the ruling party is using its influence and power to crush opposition and consolidate its grip on power. This is a worrying trend that threatens the very fabric of our democracy. Nigerians must remain vigilant and ensure that their votes count in the 2027 elections.
Ultimately, the people of Akwa Ibom will be the ones to judge Governor Eno’s actions at the ballot box. However, the damage to his reputation and credibility has already been done. As Nigerians, we must continue to demand transparency, accountability, and good governance from our leaders. Only then can we build a better future for ourselves and future generations.
… Mava
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