Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah Officially Defects to APC

Governor says move will strengthen Enugu’s link to federal government

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), confirming days of speculation about his political future.

The governor made the announcement during a state-wide broadcast on Tuesday, saying the decision was born out of a desire to connect Enugu State more closely with the federal government and accelerate development efforts.

“There always comes a time when one must make a bold choice to determine their destiny,” Mbah said.

“After long reflection, we have decided to leave the Peoples Democratic Party and join the All Progressives Congress.”

He expressed gratitude to the PDP for the platform and support it provided during his campaign and early tenure but explained that the switch was necessary to achieve his administration’s long-term goals.

“To the PDP, I extend deep gratitude for standing by us through a demanding campaign and celebrating our victory,” he said. “Leadership demands difficult decisions in pursuit of higher goals.”

The governor’s move marks a major political realignment in the South-East, as several key state officials, including members of the House of Assembly, local government chairmen, and councillors, have reportedly joined him in crossing over to the ruling APC.

Mbah also praised President Bola Tinubu’s leadership and policies, saying Enugu State had already begun to benefit from the federal government’s support. He said joining the APC would enable greater collaboration on infrastructure, investment, and governance reforms.

“I am confident that this platform will provide new opportunities for growth and partnership,” he said, assuring residents that his focus remains on the state’s development and welfare.

His defection comes amid growing reports that other PDP governors, including Bayelsa’s Douye Diri, may follow suit in the coming weeks. Earlier in the year, the governors of Delta and Akwa Ibom States, Sheriff Oborevwori and Umo Eno, also joined the APC alongside their cabinet members.

Mbah’s switch is expected to further strengthen the APC’s influence in the South-East, a region where the ruling party has historically struggled to gain ground.