By ANIETIE USEN
♦️ A Statewide Political Shift
For anyone who entertained the thoughts that the APC would have an uphill task winning the hearts of Akwa Ibom people, such thoughts perished last weekend.
In a grassroot show of overwhelming strength, the APC in a statewide, scorched earth strategy tagged HOMECOMING RALLY, held simultaneously in all the headquarters of 31 LGAs, practically took over all existing political structures of the PDP, which had dominated Akwa Ibom politics emphatically for 26 years since the return to democracy in 1999.
Akwa Ibom people from all 369 electoral wards enthusiastically turned up en masse and stood up with one voice to domesticate and domicile the APC at their doorsteps. It was the clearest public divorce so far from the PDP, ostensibly provoked by the intractable crisis in the PDP and aggravated by the chaotic public fight of its leaders in Abuja beamed live on major TV channels into homes nationwide.
♦️ Unexpected Turnout and Organic Support
The reception given to the APC shocked even the most optimistic APC stalwart who had expected modest attendance in the statewide rallies.
“The crowd you see here today is purely organic. It has completely surpassed all our expectations… Mkpö ama change (Everything has changed). Politics in this State will not be the same again in the foreseeable future,”
— Hon. Otobong Bob, House Leader, AKHA
♦️ Governor Umo Eno: The Key Factor
The key factor for the massive support the APC now enjoys in Akwa Ibom, many believe, is the person of Governor Umo Eno, perceived widely as a hardworking, result-oriented and performing governor.
“Apart from his excellent performance… his courage and foresight to quit the PDP in time has vindicated him…”
— Isantim Kenneth Okon, Political Leader, Etinan LGA
This sentiment was echoed by many:
“Our Governor has shown so much leadership and organizational skills…”
— Nseabasi Udoeyo, Former PDP, now APC stalwart, Nsit Atai
“He is a ‘capacity’ leader… a case study in transformational leadership.”
— Professor Udeme Udofia, Stakeholder, Nsit Ibom
“The Governor connects so naturally with people… people are prepared to stake their political future behind him.”
— Idorenyin James Umoh, Former PDP Governorship Aspirant, Ibiono
♦️ Beyond Politics: Strengthening Community Spirit
In Essien Udim LGA, Dr. Wisdom Enang described the Homecoming weekend as an event that transcended politics:
“This unusual event… has deepened unity and grassroots inclusivity in governance.”
♦️ Nsit Ubium: A Carnival Atmosphere
In the Governor’s home LGA, the rally acquired a carnival-like character.
Governor Eno emphasized economic transformation, focusing on the Ibom Deep Sea Port and other flagship projects.
He announced empowerment programmes and key road interventions linking major communities.
♦️ Oron Axis: Massive Turnout
Led by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, the Oron federal constituency witnessed a huge turnout.
“I am amazed by the rapid expansion and accelerated acceptance of the APC…”
— Sen. Akon Eyakenyi
Rep. Martins Esin praised the Governor’s bottom-up, people-centered governance approach.
♦️ Youth Demands and Fundraising in Etinan
In Oruk Anam, youth activist Goodnews Etiutom Ediene requested for regular Homecoming weekends.
Etinan’s rally included fundraising led by Rep. Paul Ekpo who donated ₦3 million, with the community expressing pride and support for Governor Eno.
♦️ A Statewide Wave
Across Ikot Abasi, Ikot Ekpene, Ibeno, Ini, Uyo, Ikono, Itu, Uruan, Ibesikpo Asutan and more, the story remained the same.
♦️ A Vindicated Move
Initially heartbreaking to many, Governor Eno’s departure to the APC is now viewed as a vindicated decision.
Last weekend’s homecoming practically ushered the APC into a million homes and hearts — proof that the political tide has turned in favour of the APC.
