A prominent cleric, Dr Elijah Jack, has left the Peoples Democratic Party and defected to the All Progressives Congress in Akwa Ibom State, moving more than 3,000 supporters with him.
The defection event, held over the weekend at Oniong East Ward 1 in Onna Local Government Area, was attended by several current and former political office holders.
Jack, who serves as the General Overseer of His Divine Redeemed World Ministries, explained that he joined the APC to back President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and to contribute to the president’s re-election bid in 2027.
He said his decision was driven by patriotism and the desire to promote unity, peace, and inclusive governance.
He stated that his move was not motivated by personal benefits or rivalry, but by a commitment to national unity and development. He added that what Nigerians need now is healing, cooperation, and collective progress.
Jack noted that President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritises stability and inclusiveness, while Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has also consistently promoted peace and unity through the ARISE agenda.
He said his ministry has long practised values such as forgiveness, tolerance, and reconciliation, adding that he has mediated disputes, supported youths across party lines, and encouraged citizens to prioritise unity over division.
Jack stressed that his defection is intended to build bridges rather than create tension. He said he joined the APC to bring spiritual and moral guidance to politics and encourage peaceful participation in governance.
He added that he would begin a political and spiritual movement aimed at mobilising support for President Tinubu, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, and Governor Umo Eno.
He said he plans to encourage his followers to register in their wards as APC members and ensure they obtain their voter cards ahead of the 2027 election to support Tinubu, Eno, and other leaders working for Nigeria’s progress.
Jack said his ultimate aim is to serve as a symbol of unity by demonstrating that politics should not divide citizens and that collective effort can build a peaceful and prosperous Akwa Ibom and Nigeria.
Receiving the defectors, Onna APC leader Patrick Ifon described the move as a landmark development, stating that the new members strengthen the party’s chances ahead of future elections.
He said the defection is a political statement and that the thousands of supporters Apostle Elijah brought positioned the APC in Onna for an overwhelming victory in the next electoral cycle.
Commissioner for Finance, Emem Bob, described Apostle Jack as a trusted brother whose capacity is proven, adding that his move reflects Governor Umo Eno’s goodwill in Onna.
Former House of Representatives member Dr Owoidighe Ekpoattai, APC Chapter Chairman Nkanang Nkanang, Hon Bassey Willie, Hon Oton Charlie, Barr Akan Idem, Hon Emmanuel Ekpeyo, Elder Nelson Ntia, Hon Samuel Mboso, and Comrade Tony Ekpo all praised the movement, describing it as a major boost to the APC’s grassroots strength.
