“After Akwa Ibom, Rivers Will Tumble to APC, Then Bayelsa” – Akpabio

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has suggested that following Akwa Ibom’s move to the All Progressives Congress (APC), Rivers and Bayelsa states may soon follow suit. Akpabio made the remarks on Saturday during a grand reception in Uyo to officially welcome Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno into the APC.

Addressing party members and supporters, Akpabio praised the recent political developments in the South-South, expressing confidence in the APC’s growing influence in the region ahead of the 2027 elections. “Governor Sheriff of Delta State, thank you for joining the progressive family and moving the South-South in a progressive direction. Governor Umo Eno, after you, Rivers State will just tumble, after Rivers State, Bayelsa will join,” he said.

He also highlighted the APC’s gains in Edo State, commending the party’s success in the governorship race and the emergence of Monday Okpebholo as a prominent figure. “We won the election with Governor Otu in Edo State and we produced an amiable Monday Okpebholo. Congratulations once again for your victory,” he added.

Governor Umo Eno, who defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), had previously cited internal crises within the PDP as a reason for his departure. His official defection to the APC took place on June 6 in Uyo, with the event attended by members of the Progressive Governors Forum and several APC chieftains.