The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport, Ini Ememobong, has resigned from his position just hours after Governor Umo Eno formally announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ememobong announced his resignation in a Facebook post on Friday, June 6, shortly after the governor’s declaration.
“Behold another bend,” he wrote.
“I have today tendered my resignation to the Governor in compliance with his directive that appointees unwilling to follow him to the APC should resign. While I respect the Governor’s personal choice, I am unable to join him on that journey.”
He emphasized that his decision was based on principle and a long-standing opposition to the APC.
“This decision stems from my belief in politics guided by principles, and my consistent stance against that political platform—a stance that many Nigerians validate daily. It is not a judgment of the Governor but a reaffirmation of my convictions,” he stated.
Ememobong thanked Governor Eno for the trust placed in him, having appointed him to two key portfolios: the Ministry of Information (in the past) and the Ministry of Special Duties and Ibom Deep Seaport.
He also expressed deep gratitude to former Governor Udom Emmanuel, who first brought him into the state’s Executive Council.
“I leave with great pride in the work I’ve done and submit to history and posterity the judgment of my service. Given another chance, I would do even more,” he said.
In closing, he appealed for understanding from those who may be disappointed by his decision and placed his trust in divine guidance for the future.
Governor Umo Eno had earlier declared that any appointee not willing to follow him into the APC must resign, stating, “Prepare to resign the day I announce that I am moving… You are an appointee, and your loyalty is fully to me. You can’t be in my cabinet and play anti-party. It is what it is.”
