We Will Collect the Mantle from You — PDP Warns Gov. Umo Eno Amid Defection Speculation
Akwa Ibom, Nigeria — April 28, 2025 | Gistcore News
The political climate in Akwa Ibom State is heating up as speculations grow over Governor Umo Eno’s possible defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a dramatic turn of events, the PDP has issued a symbolic and stern warning to the governor, declaring, “We will collect the mantle from you,” referencing a biblical passage during a charged town hall meeting in Ukana Ofun/Orok Anam.
According to reliable sources, Governor Umo Eno, during the public engagement, dropped subtle but unmistakable hints about his political future—suggesting an imminent departure from the party under whose platform he was elected. The statement, though vague, sparked immediate reactions from party loyalists and opposition figures alike.
Holy Allegory Meets Political Reality
Our correspondent, The Marshal, who reported live from the town hall, noted that the PDP State Chairman drew parallels between the current political situation and the biblical story of Elijah and Elisha. The chairman reportedly invoked the imagery of Elisha receiving the mantle of leadership after Elijah’s ascension, stating:
“Just like Elisha followed Elijah and eventually received the mantle, we in the PDP will follow you closely, and when you leave, we will collect the mantle and carry on.”
This symbolic warning was not just rhetorical—it carried the full weight of political intention. Party insiders suggest that the PDP is preparing for a possible leadership vacuum and is already positioning loyal successors to maintain its grip on the state’s political structure.
Tension Brews Within Party Ranks
Governor Umo Eno’s reported alliance with Senate President Godswill Akpabio—who is currently one of the leading figures in the All Progressives Congress (APC)—has only intensified speculations. Political observers believe that this alignment is more than just strategic cooperation; it may very well signal a prelude to a formal party switch.
Many PDP loyalists feel betrayed by the governor’s closeness to Akpabio, who was once a rival power broker in the state’s fiercely competitive political arena. They argue that Governor Eno’s shift in loyalty would amount to political infidelity and abandonment of the party’s legacy in Akwa Ibom.
APC Sees Opportunity, PDP Cries Foul
While the PDP scrambles to reassert its dominance, members of the APC in Akwa Ibom are already celebrating what they see as a major win. An APC insider stated:
“Governor Eno’s defection will change the entire political equation. With him on board, we will finally become rulling party in Akwa Ibom State.”
However, critics from both sides caution that defection alone doesn’t guarantee success. The state remains deeply entrenched in PDP loyalty, and a sudden switch could either bolster or break Governor Eno’s political capital depending on public perception and how he handles the transition.
A Move Towards Political Obscurity?
Some political analysts and community voices see the rumored defection as the beginning of Governor Eno’s political decline. They argue that aligning with Akpabio, who has had a controversial history in the state, could alienate core supporters and weaken the governor’s influence within local structures.
An anonymous source close to the state house noted:
“Umo Eno may think this move will make him stronger, but he is walking into a political minefield. Many in PDP view him now as a man who’s forgotten where he started. The journey to oblivion may have just begun.”
The Road Ahead
As political alliances shift and the PDP tightens its internal ranks, the months ahead will be crucial for Governor Umo Eno. Will he officially defect to the APC, or is this a calculated bluff meant to renegotiate his standing within the PDP? Only time will tell.
What remains clear is that the political narrative in Akwa Ibom is changing. And as the PDP prepares to “collect the mantle,” all eyes remain on Umo Eno and the legacy he chooses to leave behind.
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