The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Esit Eket has suffered a major setback as its Chapter Publicity Secretary, Prince John Ekpo, has officially resigned from his position and declared his move to the All Progressives Congress (APC) to join forces with Governor Umo Bassey Eno.
In a letter addressed to the PDP Ward Ten (Ntakinyang) Chairman, Mr. Nsidibe Etim Edet, Prince Ekpo stated that his resignation takes immediate effect. He explained that his decision was carefully considered and driven by his loyalty to the leadership and vision of Governor Umo Eno, whom he praised for his commitment to the Arise Agenda and transformational governance in Akwa Ibom State.
According to Prince Ekpo, it would be contradictory to remain in the PDP while pledging allegiance to the Governor, who has now aligned with the APC. “I have come to the realization that I can no longer continue to be a member of the PDP while my leader, His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, has joined the All Progressives Congress (APC). It has become imperative for me to join him in APC, as I believe that it would be inconsistent for me to remain in PDP while purporting to support his vision and leadership in APC,” he wrote.
He emphasized that his decision was purely personal and guided by conviction, not by pressure or political inducement. He also expressed gratitude to the PDP for the opportunity to serve as Chapter Publicity Secretary, noting that his tenure provided valuable experience and exposure in party administration and political communication.
“My decision to leave the PDP is personal, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have served in this capacity. I appreciate the experience gained during my tenure and am strongly available to discharge duties that might be entrusted upon me in APC,” he added.
The resignation of the PDP Chapter Publicity Secretary has sent shockwaves through the Esit Eket political space, as observers believe it may trigger a ripple effect of defections among loyalists and grassroots mobilizers. Many see Ekpo’s defection as a bold statement of solidarity with Governor Umo Eno’s political direction and a reflection of changing tides in Akwa Ibom’s political landscape.
With this development, the APC is expected to gain more ground in Esit Eket, as supporters of the Governor consolidate efforts to advance his Arise Agenda under the ruling party’s banner.