The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, has defended his recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), comparing his political decision to a man chasing an elephant who refuses to be distracted by the barking of dogs along the path.

He stated this in Uyo on Wednesday after returning from France, where he attended the United Nations Ocean Conference.

The governor stated that his decision to join the APC was driven by the best interests of the Akwa Ibom people and aimed at strategically positioning the state for greater development.

He dismissed criticism of his defection, particularly from those he described as non-indigenes who, according to him, interfere in matters that do not concern them.

“For those who think we don’t have a choice, I have exercised my right. It is within our constitutional right to freely associate,” he said.

“Let’s remain focused because when you are pursuing an elephant, you don’t let a dog stop you on the road.”

Reaffirming his authority and responsibility as the sitting governor, Eno said: “This is Akwa Ibom’s matter. I am the one in the driver’s seat today. I know the road without traffic jams, without potholes. That’s why I’ve chosen to take Akwa Ibom on an expressway of development.”

He vowed to keep guiding the state toward peace, unity, and progress, guided by his faith and a sense of divine purpose.

Also speaking, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, the state chairman of the APC, praised Eno’s leadership, urging citizens to look beyond criticisms and support the governor’s efforts to attract more federal benefits to Akwa Ibom.

“Governor Eno is the right leader for this time. Rather than engage in vain criticisms, let’s support him to bring more dividends of democracy from the federal level to our people,” Ntukekpo said

As Nigeria celebrates June 12, former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Chief Olu Falae, has insisted that he won the 1999 presidential election.

Falae claimed that he won the election with election with 1.5 million votes, adding that the result was confirmed to “him by the late Ambassador Antonio Oladeinde Fernandez,” who reportedly saw the results in the possession of American officials.

Speaking with Arise Television, Falae said the military installed former President Olusegun Obasanjo because he was a retired Army general.

The former SGF insisted that the military wanted someone who would shield them from scrutiny, hence the choice of Obasanjo as winner of the 1999 presidential election.

According to Falae, the military was uncomfortable with handing over power to a “thoroughbred civilian.”

“I have no doubt in my mind, and most Nigerians have no doubt whatsoever, that it was I that they voted for.

“I was ready to govern. I had spent my life in public and private service without blemish. I was better prepared.”

Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has once again affirmed that democratic governance has taken root despite ongoing challenges.

In a statement released on his behalf by his Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communications, Emmanuel Bello, in commemoration of Democracy Day, Governor Kefas saluted Nigerians, who he said have contributed to deepening the democratic experience.

Stressing that “the labours of our heroes past shall never be in vain,” the governor, reflecting on the country’s democratic journey, emphasised the importance of perseverance and nation-building.

Arguing that “Rome was not built in a day,” he urged Nigerians to remain hopeful and committed to democratic ideals that strengthen institutions and promote good governance.

Kefas, who also cited progress in peace and security, noted that improved safety in Jalingo and other areas had created a conducive atmosphere for political participation and constructive criticism.

“Jalingo and its environs were once plagued by kidnappings and criminality. Today, through hard work and commitment, we’ve made the state safe enough for residents to return and freely express their views. That’s part of the democratic progress we celebrate,” he recalled.

The governor reiterated his belief in action over rhetoric, stressing the importance of laying solid foundations for sustainable development.

“We are not in a hurry. I talk less and plan more,” he said. “If, after four years, we haven’t delivered, then the people can judge us accordingly,” Kefas said.

He added: “We now have a clear roadmap on which to build the infrastructure our people need. It was worth the wait to ensure things are done properly and will stand the test of time.”