Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), ending weeks of speculation over his political future. Mbah announced the move on Tuesday during a statewide broadcast, saying it was a strategic decision aimed at strengthening Enugu’s connection with the federal government.
Explaining his decision, Mbah said his defection followed “deep reflection” on the state’s development needs. ”There comes always a time when everyone must make a bold choice to determine their destiny. Today, after long reflection, we have made a decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party and join the All Progressives Congress,” the governor said.
Mbah expressed gratitude to the PDP for its past support but maintained that his administration’s goals could be better realised under the ruling APC. ”To the Peoples Democratic Party, which provided us the platform on which we campaigned and won, I extend deep gratitude. Leadership demands difficult, even painful decisions in the service of higher principles and goals,” he said.
The governor, who came into office in May 2023 under the PDP, emphasised that joining the APC was driven by his commitment to “serve the people of Enugu better” and align the state’s development vision with federal policies.
Mbah’s defection was not a solo move. He was joined by several political officeholders, including members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, local council chairmen, and councillors, signalling a major political realignment in the South-East.
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He praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and policies, stating that Enugu had already begun to benefit from “massive support” under the current administration. ”Our state has enjoyed tremendous goodwill and assistance from President Tinubu’s government, and this partnership will only deepen as we move forward,” Mbah said.
This defection would strengthen the influence of APC’s in the South-East, where the party has struggled to secure firm ground in recent elections.
Governor Mbah’s move follows a recent pattern among southern governors switching allegiance to the ruling party. Earlier this year, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom Governor Umo Eno also crossed over to the APC with their key officials.
Sources close to the presidency indicate that Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri may be next, with his defection reportedly “finalised” and awaiting formal declaration. It would also strengthen the APC’s regional leverage ahead of the next general elections while leaving the PDP facing an uphill battle to retain its traditional bases.
The governor reiterated his commitment to unity and progress, promising that the change in party affiliation “will not alter the government’s focus on service delivery and inclusive governance.” ”,Our mission remains clear — to build an Enugu that works for everyone,” he concluded.