Nigeria, June 8 -- In a state known for political stability, Akwa Ibom is now grappling with a fresh wave of betrayal, not just of political godfathers or party structures, but of the very electorate who entrusted their hopes to the ballot box. Governor Umo Eno's defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) marks more than a shift in party loyalty, it is a loud indictment of how self-interest has hijacked Nigeria's democracy.

This political earthquake occurred two years into Eno's first term, but its tremors are being felt across the entire democratic structure of the state. Backed by thunderous opposition from the people during a town hall meeting in Ikot Abasi, Governor Eno pressed forward wi...