Akwa Ibom APC urged to carefully vet defectors as influx from PDP raises concerns over loyalty and party integrity ahead of 2027 elections
Akwa Ibom State political observers are urging the All Progressives Congress (APC) to carefully vet opposition defectors amid a surge of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members joining the ruling party.
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Political commentator Aniefiok Isat highlighted that the wave of defections, triggered by Governor Umo Eno’s switch from PDP to APC, reflects a broader trend across Nigeria, with prominent former PDP figures seeking political shelter rather than embracing the APC’s ideology.
Isat warned that indiscriminate acceptance of defectors could undermine the party’s cohesion and discipline.
“Most of these people are not joining APC because they believe in APC. They are joining because there is nowhere else to go. PDP is weak, divided, and confused. Other parties are irrelevant,” he said.
The commentator expressed concern that the APC risked becoming a party populated by former adversaries, whose loyalty is driven by convenience rather than conviction.
“You cannot pour PDP into APC and expect APC to remain the same. Same mindset, same habits, same desperation for power,” Isat added.
With the 2027 elections approaching, analysts stress that party strength is not built on numbers alone.
Loyalty, discipline, and ideological alignment are critical for sustainable governance.
“Power gained by convenience is power lost by betrayal,” Isat said.
Observers note that Akwa Ibom, which has been under PDP control since 1999, serves as a political bellwether.
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The state’s electorate and the nation at large are closely watching how APC manages the influx of defectors, which may shape the party’s long-term credibility.
