Akwa Ibom State Governor, Umo Eno, has urged the people of the state to ignore detractors and destructive critics of his recent defection, saying his move to the All Progressives Congress was in the best interest of the state.

Addressing a mammoth crowd at the Victor Attah International Airport on his arrival from France on Wednesday, Eno asserted that he is the one in the driver’s seat and knows the right path to avoid traffic jams.

He said many of those criticising his decision are not even from Akwa Ibom State but enjoy interfering in matters that do not concern them.

Eno emphasised that Akwa Ibom would remain focused, peaceful, and united in its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio.

He stated that his defection to the APC was never intended to cause disunity but rather to strategically position the state for progress and greatness.

He said, “And for the people who think we don’t have a choice, tell them that I have exercised my right, and that it is within our right to freely associate. Let’s remain focused, because when you are pursuing an elephant, you don’t let a dog stop you on the road.

“So, to those who are talking—some of them are not even from Akwa Ibom—they put their mouths in what does not concern them. Please, don’t listen to them. This progressive movement is within my right!

“This is Akwa Ibom State’s matter. I am the one in the driver’s seat today. I am the one holding the steering wheel, and I know where there will be no traffic jam. I know where there will be no potholes. That’s why I have chosen to take Akwa Ibom on an expressway—free of traffic and potholes. I am the driver who can see clearly.”

He reaffirmed his commitment to leading the state on a path of unity, peace, and progress, under the guidance and influence of the Holy Spirit, which he said found him worthy to lead at this critical time.

Also speaking, the APC State Chairman, Obong Stephen Ntukekpo, described the political criticisms trailing the governor’s defection as unreasonable. He maintained that Governor Eno is the right leader for the moment and will continue to pilot the affairs of the state with passion, regardless of opposition.

He called on the people to ignore baseless criticisms and unite in supporting the governor to bring more dividends of democracy from the federal level to the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prince Enobong Uwah, who led a team of supporters to welcome the governor, said the warm and colourful reception was a demonstration of solidarity and love for a father and governor who has performed creditably well.