......Describes Defection as Turning Point for South-South Unity Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has hailed the defection of his Akwa Ibom counterpart, Pastor Umo Eno, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a defining moment for political realignment and unity in the South-South region. He described the move as a major boost for the ruling party and a step toward greater regional cohesion. Speaking to journalists after attending the high-profile defection ceremony at the Government House Banquet Hall in Uyo, Governor Otu expressed delight over what he called a “great day” for both Cross River and the wider South-South. As Vice Chairman of the South-South Governors’ Forum, Governor Otu recalled a pivotal APC meeting hosted in Calabar last year, where he had called for a new political direction in the region.
"At the time, I was the only APC governor in the South-South—I felt like an orphan,” Otu said, reflecting on the political isolation then. “We had not secured Edo or Delta, and Akwa Ibom was still out of reach. But I said something would change — and now, it has.”
Describing Governor Eno’s switch to the APC as “a welcome development,” Otu noted that Cross River and Akwa Ibom, once a single entity, share deep historical and cultural ties and should naturally align for the sake of unity and development.
“Now that we’re politically aligned, alongside our sister APC states in the region, the South-South is better positioned to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold reforms and strategic vision,” he stated.
Governor Otu went on to commend President Tinubu’s leadership, highlighting progress in infrastructure, fiscal discipline, and economic reforms.
“Gone are the days of freeloading,” he said. “Despite global economic challenges, Nigeria is experiencing real, measurable growth. The numbers tell the story.”
When asked about Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa, now the only PDP governor remaining in the region, Otu responded with warmth and optimism.
“Governor Diri is my chairman at the South-South Governors’ Forum. I don’t believe he wants to stand alone,” he remarked. “As I always say: ‘Follow who know road.’ He’s a fine gentleman, and I trust he’ll make the right call.”
On integrating new entrants like Governor Eno into the APC fold, Governor Otu emphasized the party’s inclusive spirit. “In the APC, once you receive your membership card and broom, you are one of us — fully. There will be no rancor, just like we saw in Delta. This will unite not only Akwa Ibom APC, but the entire South-South.” Governor Otu concluded by declaring that the South-South is now on a united path under the APC. “We are no longer speaking in different political tongues. We’re in the same boat now. APC is the way forward.”
Kingsley Agim
