DESTINY YOUNG
The political atmosphere in Akwa Ibom State is charged with anticipation as Governor Umo Eno edges closer to defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), with the aim of securing his second term. This move, if realised, is poised to reshape the state’s political landscape, potentially bringing with him a significant portion-up to 80%-of the PDP’s structure. Yet, beneath the surface of this political realignment lies a critical question: what becomes of the APC loyalists who have weathered years in opposition, often at great personal and collective cost?
The Context: A State on the Brink of Political Realignment
Governor Eno’s public statements have left little doubt about his intentions. Drawing an analogy between his current party and a faulty aircraft, he has openly questioned the PDP’s viability as a platform for his future ambitions, suggesting he is ready to “board the next available plane”-a clear hint at his imminent defection to the APC. This comes against the backdrop of a wave of defections from the PDP, fuelled by internal crises and a loss of confidence among key stakeholders.
The governor’s move is not unprecedented. Recent months have seen high-profile defections, such as Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who crossed over to the APC with his commissioners and local government chairpersons. In Akwa Ibom, the stage appears set for a similar exodus, with political figures describing recent events as “the beginning of the festival of defections.”
The Forgotten Foot Soldiers: APC’s Enduring Opposition
For years, the APC in Akwa Ibom has functioned as the perennial opposition, often marginalised and excluded from the corridors of power. Its members and supporters have endured political isolation, denied access to government contracts, empowerment programmes, and even basic recognition. Every election cycle, dedicated APC media teams and grassroots mobilisers have fought valiantly against the PDP’s formidable machinery, only to be left unrewarded and overlooked once the dust settled.
As someone who has been at the heart of this struggle-leveraging digital communications to amplify the opposition’s voice and managing three consecutive APC governorship campaigns-I have witnessed firsthand the sacrifices and resilience of these loyalists. Their commitment has kept the APC brand alive in Akwa Ibom, often at significant personal cost.
The Integration Imperative: Risks of Marginalisation
The prospect of Governor Eno moving to the APC with the bulk of the PDP’s structure raises legitimate fears among longstanding APC members. There is a palpable risk that, in the euphoria of new alliances, the original APC faithful-those who gave the party a face and a fighting chance-will be sidelined or subsumed under the weight of the incoming political juggernaut. Such an outcome would not only be unjust but would also sow seeds of discord, threatening the very stability and unity the party seeks to achieve.
Sample Case Scenario
Consider the case of Atuekong Felix Udoh, a former PDP stalwart who recently defected to the APC with hundreds of supporters. His defection was celebrated as a major win, with party leaders promising greater opportunities and integration. Yet, history is replete with instances where such promises faded, leaving original party members feeling alienated and betrayed. If the integration process is not managed with transparency and fairness, the APC risks repeating this cycle on a much larger scale, especially if Governor Eno arrives with a massive following.
The Digital Dimension: Harnessing Technology for Integration
Akwa Ibom’s recognition as Nigeria’s most digitally compliant state offers a unique opportunity. Digital platforms can be leveraged to create transparent, inclusive processes for integrating new members, tracking contributions, and ensuring equitable access to party benefits. This digital-first approach can help bridge divides, foster trust, and ensure that no loyalist is left behind.
Recommendations
1. Establish a Transparent Integration Framework: The APC should set up a bipartisan committee to oversee the integration of defectors and original members, with clear criteria for appointments, benefits, and responsibilities.
2. Recognise and Reward Loyalty: Special recognition should be accorded to longstanding APC members-through appointments, contracts, and public acknowledgment-to reinforce the value of loyalty.
3. Leverage Digital Tools: Develop digital platforms for membership management, communication, and feedback to ensure inclusivity and real-time engagement.
4. Promote Dialogue and Reconciliation: Organise town hall meetings and stakeholder forums to address grievances, build consensus, and foster a spirit of unity.
5. Monitor and Evaluate Integration Outcomes: Regularly assess the integration process, making adjustments as necessary to maintain fairness and cohesion.
“A political party that forgets those who carried its torch through the darkest nights risks losing its way when the sun rises. True progress demands that both old allies and new arrivals are valued, integrated, and given a stake in the journey ahead.” – Destiny Young
Conclusion
The impending political realignment in Akwa Ibom presents both a challenge and an opportunity. If managed with foresight and fairness, it can usher in a new era of unity and progress. But if the sacrifices of the APC’s original loyalists are ignored, the party risks internal strife and disillusionment. The time to act is now-before the Air Peace flight takes off, let us ensure that every passenger, old and new, has a seat and a stake in the journey ahead.
– By Destiny Young, Political Development Analyst (A principled Opposition Figure from AD to ACN to APC).