The Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port in Akwa Ibom State, Dr. Ini Ememobong, has stepped down from Governor Umo Eno’s cabinet following the governor’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Governor Eno officially declared his exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during an event at the Government House in Uyo on Friday.
The event was attended by prominent APC leaders, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, and Mrs. Ekaette Unoma Akpabio, wife of the Senate President.
Before his announcement, the governor had urged all political appointees unwilling to transition to the APC to resign. Dr. Ememobong submitted his resignation in a letter in compliance with that directive.
In the letter, he said, “Ipso facto, based on my personal conviction, I will be unable to join the All Progressives Congress. I hereby most respectfully tender my resignation as Honourable Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Sea Port and a member of the State Executive Council.”
He expressed his appreciation for the chance to serve under Governor Eno and his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, who appointed him Commissioner for Information.
Ememobong elaborated on his choice on social media, noting that while his decision might not be well-received by everyone, it was founded on his values and made in good faith.
“Today, I have tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that his appointees who are unwilling to join him on the political journey to the APC should resign.
While I cannot question or fault the Governor’s personal decision, I am unable to join in that sojourn. My decision is borne out of my belief in politics with principles and my long-standing opposition to that political platform”
Dr. Ememobong, a prominent figure in the PDP’s political landscape, is the first senior cabinet member to oppose the governor’s shift openly.
While most government officials are expected to accompany Eno to the APC, Ememobong’s resignation indicates discontent among the state’s populace regarding this defection.
