In a significant political development in Akwa Ibom State, a total of 37,874 members from various opposition parties made the decision to join the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Friday, March 22, 2024.

The defectors, hailing from parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), Young Progressives Party (YPP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and the Social Democratic Party (SDP), expressed their commitment to supporting the PDP. Former state secretary of the APC, Nkereuwem Enyong Ekere, and Emmanuel Uko Etteh of the YPP, spoke on behalf of the returnees, emphasizing their readiness to merge their structures and collaborate with the PDP.

Welcoming the new members at the PDP Secretariat in Uyo, Governor Umo Eno urged them to show respect and refrain from attacking their leaders, particularly at the national level. He emphasized the importance of unity, peace, and love in fostering growth and progress within the party and the state.

Governor Eno assured the defectors of equal opportunities to contribute to the party and the state, highlighting the inclusivity of the PDP. State PDP chairman, Aniekan Akpan, described the reception rally as a significant event, underscoring the reintegration of former PDP leaders into the party.

Acknowledging the confidence shown by the returnees in the achievements of Governor Eno’s administration, Akpan emphasized the unity and collaboration needed to advance the PDP’s agenda in the state. He also mentioned the meticulous record-keeping of the returnees, showcasing their numbers from various units, wards, and local government areas.

The event, marked by a spirit of unity and optimism, symbolized a turning point in the political landscape of Akwa Ibom State. As the PDP continues to grow and evolve, the influx of new members signifies a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to the party’s vision for the future.