Ten members of the National Assembly from Akwa Ibom State elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Young Progressives Party (YPP) have resolved to join Governor Umo Eno in defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The planned defection comes following a wider movement within the country’s political landscape, as the ruling APC continues to attract members from opposition parties.
Senators Neda Imasuen (Edo) and Ahmed Wadada (Nasarawa) are also reported to be among those preparing to switch allegiance to the APC.
The APC has confirmed it is actively working to welcome four additional PDP governors into its fold, a move that has attracted criticism from those who fear a slide toward a one-party system.
Some of the Akwa Ibom lawmakers have confirmed their intention to defect but declined to speak on record, citing the need to follow proper legislative procedures.
The APC National Vice Chairman (South-East), Dr Ijeoma Arodiogbu, confirmed the development in an interview, describing the lawmakers’ planned defection as a positive step for the party.
Those expected to join the APC include Senators Ekong Sampson (Akwa Ibom South) and Aniekan Bassey (Akwa Ibom North-East), along with House of Representatives members Okpolupm Etteh, Paul Asuquo, Alphonsus Uduak, Ime Bassey, Martins Esin, Unyime Idem, and Mark Esset.
