In a move that is set to drastically reshape the political landscape of the South-East, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The landmark decision was met with immediate commendation from top APC stalwarts, including Hon. Chinedum Kanu, who praised the Governor for his “courageous and strategic move.
In a statement released to CDA News on Tuesday, Hon. Kanu, a key figure in the South-East APC structure, described Governor Mbah’s defection as a “masterstroke for the development and integration of Enugu State.”
I heartily commend His Excellency, Governor Peter Mbah, for his insightful decision to dump the sinking ship of the PDP and join the progressive train of the All Progressives Congress,” Kanu stated.
This is a clear demonstration of visionary leadership. Aligning with the party at the center is the surest way to attract the federal projects and partnerships needed to fast-track the development agenda he has for Enugu State. The entire APC family in the South-East welcomes him with open arms.
Governor Peter Mbah dumping the PDP represents a seismic shift in the region’s politics. Enugu State has traditionally been a stronghold of the PDP since the return to democracy in 1999. This defection signals a potential collapse of the party’s dominance in the Igbo heartland, following similar realignments in Ebonyi State.
Political analysts suggest the move is strategically calculated for the 2027 general elections. By joining the ruling APC, Governor Mbah potentially secures greater access to federal resources, insulation from political opposition, and a stronger platform for a re-election bid.
The defection is expected to trigger a legal battle, as the Nigerian Constitution stipulates that an elected official can only defect without losing their seat if there is a verifiable fracture in their original party. The PDP is likely to challenge the move in court.
While the APC camp is celebrating, reactions within Enugu are mixed. Supporters of the governor believe the move will bring tangible federal benefits, while opposition members and PDP loyalists have condemned it as an act of political desperation.
