Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has formally announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the need to connect Enugu more closely with the central government.
Governor Mbah made the declaration in a statewide broadcast on Monday, describing his decision as a “bold step” taken after deep reflection on the state’s future and development prospects.
“There always comes a time when everyone must make a bold choice to determine their destiny,” Mbah stated. “Today, after careful consideration, we have decided to leave the Peoples Democratic Party and join the All Progressives Congress.”
The governor expressed appreciation to the PDP for providing him a platform during his political journey, noting that the party supported him through his campaign and victory at the polls. However, he maintained that leadership sometimes demands tough choices made in the interest of the people.
“To the Peoples Democratic Party, which gave us the platform to serve, I express my profound gratitude. But leadership is about taking difficult, sometimes painful decisions in pursuit of higher goals,” he added.
According to Mbah, joining the APC will enable his administration to better serve Enugu residents and tap into the development agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government.
He praised the President for extending what he described as “massive federal support” to Enugu State since assuming office, stressing that his decision was motivated by the desire to consolidate on those gains for the people’s benefit.
The defection did not occur in isolation, as members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, local government chairmen, councillors, and several political appointees reportedly joined the governor in moving to the ruling party.
Political analysts say Mbah’s switch may signal a significant realignment in the South East, where the PDP has historically maintained a strong presence.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri could be the next to make a similar move, with sources hinting that his defection to the APC has already been finalized. Earlier in the year, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno were also reported to have crossed over to the ruling party along with their key aides and officials.
Governor Mbah reaffirmed his commitment to the development of Enugu State, assuring residents that the political transition will not derail his administration’s vision of economic transformation, infrastructure renewal, and improved governance.
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