Following his defection and subsequent takeover of the structure of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom, Governor Umo Bassey Eno, during his first meeting with the party’s hierarchy and critical stakeholders in the banquet hall of the Government House, on Tuesday, July 15, banned ward and chapter leaders of the party.

The governor, however, appreciated the Senator, representing Ikot Ekpene Senatorial district and President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio and the entire APC family for accepting him into the ruling party, even as he lauded his supporters, who joined the ‘progressive movement’ to the APC.

He frowned at self-acclaimed leaders of the party and officers, who imposed items, including goats and drinks on defecting members, before receiving them into the party, describing the development as counterproductive and inimical to his unity project in the party and larger state.

In his words, “I want to make it categorically clear that as the leader of the APC, I hold the authority to appoint leaders at these levels.

“This decision is crucial for maintaining unity and ensuring that our party continues to thrive and serve the interests of our constituencies effectively.

“I urge those individuals who are eager to assume leadership positions within their respective local governments and wards to take a step back and understand that the leadership of our party is a responsibility I take seriously. The time for speculation is over, my decision stands firm,” the governor warned.

The meeting had In attendance the President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio; the state Chairman of the APC, Stephen Ntokekpo, chapters and ward officers; local government chairmen and top government functionaries. (BusinessDay)