In a significant political realignment, 24 members of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly have officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). 

The announcement comes just days after Governor Umo Eno formally joined the APC, marking a major shift in the state's political landscape.

The lawmakers announced their defection on Tuesday through a formal communication to the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, who confirmed receipt of the letters on the floor of the Assembly.

According to the lawmakers, the decision was informed by ongoing internal crises and factional disputes within the PDP's state leadership. They cited the party’s inability to resolve longstanding issues and deliver unified governance as the main motivation behind their departure.

 “The internal wrangling within the PDP has crippled effective leadership and stifled our legislative work. We believe joining the APC will help us better serve our constituents,” a statement on behalf of the defecting lawmakers read.

With the defection, only two members remain under the PDP banner in the 26-member Assembly. Among them is Hon. Uduak Ekpo-Ufot, representing Etinan State Constituency, a known ally of former Governor Udom Emmanuel.

In response to the changes in party alignment, Speaker Otong also announced a leadership reshuffle. Sunday Johnny, who represents Onna Constituency and now serves as part of the minority PDP bloc, has been relieved of his role as House Leader.

Chief Whip Effiong Johnson, representing Mbo Constituency, has been named Acting Leader of the House pending further legislative resolutions.

This mass defection solidifies the APC’s control over the Akwa Ibom State legislature and is likely to reshape the state’s political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections.