Peter Mbah defects to APC from PDP
Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), in a move that marks a major shift in political alignments in the South-East.
His decision came after what he described as a period of deep reflection. He expressed gratitude to the PDP for providing the platform that brought him into office. However, he also said that leadership sometimes requires “bold choices” in order to align with values such as transparency, trust, and service to the people.
The defection was not just an individual decision. It was a collective move that involved a large part of his political family in Enugu State: members of the State House of Assembly, National Assembly, State Executive Council, nearly all local government chairmen and councillors, and a high proportion of the party executive structure. Over 80% of the PDP executives in Enugu reportedly joined him in the move.
At the announcement, supporters and APC members in the crowd chanted the party anthem, “On Your Mandate We Shall Stand,” as Governor Mbah joined in singing. He also officially registered his membership in APC and was presented with his party card.
Governor Mbah said the defection is aimed at strengthening ties with the federal government to ensure Enugu State secures more development opportunities. He described APC as a platform more aligned with Enugu’s development agenda, hoping this move will not disrupt ongoing projects but rather enhance the state’s influence at the national level.
Some reactions include praise from pro-governance groups and supporters, who describe the decision as courageous, and as potentially ushering in a new era for Enugu politics. Critics however consider the implications for PDP’s hold in the South-East and question what this means for party loyalty going forward.
