South-South Political Map May Soon Turn All-Progressive as Akpabio Predicts Rivers and Bayelsa Will Join APC

 

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has raised political eyebrows following his confident declaration that the All Progressives Congress (APC) is poised to consolidate control over the entire South-South region of Nigeria. Speaking during a vibrant reception ceremony for the newest APC convert, Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, Akpabio projected a domino effect that could see Rivers and Bayelsa States following suit.

The event, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom's capital, drew a crowd of party loyalists, governors, and high-ranking APC stakeholders. The reception was not merely ceremonial. It marked a pivotal moment in the region’s political evolution, underscoring a growing momentum for the APC in a zone traditionally regarded as a stronghold of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Akpabio, clearly energized by recent developments, delivered a charged address brimming with optimism for the future of his party in the region. He did not shy away from forecasting sweeping victories for the APC in upcoming elections, asserting that the political landscape of the South-South is gradually being redrawn in favor of the ruling party.

Thanking Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State for what he described as his move toward progressive ideals, Akpabio stated, “Governor Sheriff of Delta State, thank you for joining the progressive family and moving the South-South in a progressive direction.” His words suggested an intentional strategy to align more governors with the APC brand, using recent defections as leverage to woo others.

Governor Umo Eno, once considered a stalwart of the PDP, has now formally embraced the APC, citing disillusionment and internal party strife as the chief reasons for his decision. His defection, announced on June 6 at a rally in Uyo, did not come as a surprise to many, given the indications he had previously dropped in April. During that earlier period, he openly criticized the PDP for its internal divisions and hinted at exploring new political horizons.

At the grand reception, Akpabio teased what could be next, predicting a swift and strategic realignment of other key South-South states. “Governor Umo Eno, after you, Rivers State will just tumble, after Rivers State, Bayelsa will join,” he proclaimed, igniting speculation about ongoing behind-the-scenes negotiations with stakeholders in those states.

Observers say the mention of Rivers State is particularly notable. The state, rich in electoral weight and economic resources, has long been a battleground between Nigeria’s dominant parties. A shift to the APC would significantly boost the party’s prospects not only in regional politics but also on the national front ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Akpabio also celebrated recent political achievements in Edo State, pointing to the APC’s victory through Governor Bassey Otu and the election of Monday Okpebholo. “We won the election with Governor Otu in Edo State and we produced an amiable Monday Okpebholo, congratulations once again for your victory,” he said, casting these wins as proof of the party’s growing influence in the region.

Supporters of the APC are framing this momentum as a signal that the PDP's grip on the South-South is loosening. Party strategists suggest that public dissatisfaction with the PDP’s leadership, combined with targeted outreach and incentives from the APC, are driving this political migration.

Although the PDP has not issued an official response to Eno’s defection or to Akpabio’s sweeping remarks, insiders suggest there is mounting concern within the party about the possible chain reaction. Political analysts have begun speculating about potential PDP losses, especially if internal disputes remain unresolved and APC continues its aggressive courtship of disillusioned members.

The Progressive Governors Forum played a visible role in the event, offering vocal support to Eno and reinforcing the message of unity and vision under the APC. Several governors from other regions were also present, signifying the importance of the South-South realignment to the party’s national strategy.

As Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections, the political reconfiguration taking place in the South-South is likely to remain under close scrutiny. Whether Akpabio’s forecast proves to be prophetic or premature will depend on how both parties maneuver in the months to come. What is clear, however, is that the once-solid PDP fortress in the region is now vulnerable, and the APC is seizing the moment to tilt the balance of power in its favor.