Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing divisions within his former party and a desire to align the state with the Federal Government.
In a broadcast on Tuesday, Mbah said joining the ruling party would better position Enugu to attract federal projects and investments.
The move has drawn mixed reactions. Enugu South lawmaker Ms Obiajulu Ugwu praised the decision as “a bold step” that would bring more development to the state. Similarly, Igbo-Etiti Council Chairman Dr Eric Odo described it as “a wise alignment” that would strengthen state-federal cooperation.
However, PDP member Mr John Ugwu criticised the defection, accusing the governor of “political betrayal” and promising that the PDP would regroup and remain a credible opposition force.
Observers say the defection could have far-reaching implications for Enugu’s political alignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
