A vocal grassroots political pundit from Ibiono Ibom Local Government, Prince Jeremiah Udoh, has condemned the recent defection of Akwa Ibom State governor, Pastor Umo Eno, from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), calling it an act of political double-dealing and a threat to the state’s democracy.
He stated this during a media briefing in Uyo on Sunday, June 8, 2025.
According to him, the governor’s action is deepening political disunity as he (the governor) alleged plans to maintain influence in both parties.
“What I am saying is that this is a double standard because everywhere the governor goes, he comments that while he decamps to the APC, he will also hold on to the PDP so that no one can use the party for the reason it was created. And this is a double standard.”
Mr Udoh, who hails from Ibiono Ibom Local Government Area, said he is speaking out on behalf of people in the street who are concerned about the recent development in the state.
“I am here speaking on behalf of the common citizens in our state who are not opportune to voice out their concerns.
“As a political leader, the grassroots are worried over the defection of our governor and other political members.”
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Prince Udoh emphasised that the people of Akwa Ibom did not vote for individual personalities but for the PDP as a political platform, stressing that defectors must vacate their offices.
“All those elected on the platform of the PDP, be it governor, deputy governor, state and National Assembly members, and even local government chairmen, should immediately vacate the positions they are holding if they choose to decamp, “ he reiterated.
Calling for immediate action, he urged the National Working Committee of the PDP to dissolve the State Working Committee and establish a new caretaker executive, insisting that all elected officials who defected must relinquish their positions.
He also demanded that INEC and AKISIEC declare their seats vacant and prepare for bye-elections.
On a broader note, Mr. Udoh also urged all political parties and citizens to stand against the imposition of a single-party regime in the state.
“I believe I am speaking the minds of the good people of Akwa Ibom State because this state does not have a one-party system, and come 2027, we will all file our candidates.
“Elections will run in this town, and the will of the people will prevail by the special grace of God,” he said.
Speaking further, Udoh noted that his statement calls for unity and democratic vigilance, stating that his efforts are not just about party loyalty but about protecting the democratic values and rights of the people of Akwa Ibom.
