Breaking: Enugu Governor Peter Mbah Defects to APC - Full Reasons and What It Means for PDP

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on October 14, 2025. This move, made during a press conference in Enugu, marks a significant realignment in Nigerian politics, especially in a region historically loyal to the PDP. Mbah, who was elected in 2023 under the PDP banner, cited a desire for stronger federal partnerships and accelerated development as core motivations.

The announcement came amid months of speculation about Mbah's political future. In his address titled "Charting a New Course: Transition from PDP to APC," Mbah expressed gratitude to the people of Enugu, his administration, and even the PDP for past support. He emphasized that the defection was not an individual choice but a collective decision involving key stakeholders, including National Assembly members, State House of Assembly members, the State Executive Council, local government chairmen, councillors, political appointees, and over 80 percent of party executives.

Mbah highlighted his administration's achievements over the past 28 months as evidence of his commitment to progress. These include the construction of Smart Green Schools, primary healthcare centers in all 260 wards, an 80 percent reduction in crime, a 400 percent drop in maternal, under-5, and infant mortality rates, and the deployment of AI-embedded security systems with 150 distress response vehicles. Water supply has been restored, over 1,000 kilometers of roads paved, internally generated revenue increased by 600 percent, and tourism initiatives like a zipline and eco-tourist sites are set to attract 3 million visitors by 2026. Enugu also won the Renewed Hope Initiative's Model Green State Award as Nigeria's cleanest state.

This backdrop sets the stage for understanding why Mbah felt a shift was necessary. He positioned the defection as a strategic step to ensure Enugu's voice is amplified at the federal level, aligning local ambitions with national reforms.

Why Did Peter Mbah Defect to APC? Key Reasons Explained

Mbah's speech outlined several compelling reasons for leaving the PDP, a party that has dominated Enugu politics for nearly three decades. First and foremost, he pointed to the PDP's repeated disregard for the South East region's voices despite unwavering loyalty. "For decades, the South East, especially Enugu, has stood firmly behind the PDP, showing loyalty that shaped the party's success. Yet despite this history, our voices were too often disregarded when it mattered most," Mbah stated.

He stressed the need for a "fair partnership" where Enugu's interests are better represented. This move, he argued, stems from principles of transparency, trust, and service to the people, not resentment. Mbah described the APC as offering a "visionary partnership" that matches his bold, disruptive approach to governance.

A central reason is alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. Mbah praised Tinubu as a "partner in purpose" committed to transformative changes, including extending roads, railways, and airlines from the South East. He highlighted shared convictions on grassroots development, such as decentralizing opportunities, strengthening local governments, providing seed capital to youth, and expanding healthcare and education at the community level.

Mbah specifically referenced the federal Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, which aims to empower over 8.8 million Nigerians across 8,809 electoral wards. This initiative resonates with Enugu's ward-based development efforts, promising to reinforce state projects with federal resources. He acknowledged tough national decisions like subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification as necessary for long-term prosperity, aligning them with his own audacious reforms in Enugu.

Overall, the defection is framed as connecting Enugu's destiny to national reforms, ensuring ongoing projects like schools, hospitals, and roads are completed without interruption. Mbah reassured that Enugu's Igbo identity and destiny remain unchanged, but the shift provides stronger federal backing.

Peter Mbah's Achievements in Enugu: Building Momentum for Change

To appreciate the context of this defection, it's essential to review Mbah's track record since taking office in 2023. Under his "Tomorrow Is Here" slogan, Enugu has seen rapid advancements. Infrastructure booms include the revival of moribund assets like Hotel Presidential and Nigergas, fully booked international conference centers boosting the local economy, and direct flights via Enugu Air connecting to major cities.

Economic growth is evident in a 600 percent rise in internally generated revenue and the establishment of 260 farm estates to scale agricultural production. Transportation improvements feature comfortable CNG buses at five world-class terminals. Security enhancements, such as the Command and Control Centre, have made streets safer, contributing to an 80 percent crime drop.

Health and education reforms are equally impressive. Primary healthcare centers cover every ward, drastically reducing mortality rates. Smart Green Schools integrate technology and sustainability, preparing the next generation. Tourism projections for 3 million visitors by 2026, supported by immersive eco-sites and Nigeria's first zipline, position Enugu as a national hub.

These accomplishments, Mbah argues, deserve federal amplification through APC affiliation. By defecting, he aims to sustain this momentum, ensuring Enugu remains on the global map.

Implications of Peter Mbah Defection to APC for South East Politics

This defection could reshape South East politics, traditionally a PDP stronghold. As the first sitting governor in the region to join the APC since 2015, Mbah's move might encourage others, signaling a potential erosion of PDP dominance. Analysts see it as a pragmatic response to PDP's internal crises, including leadership struggles and electoral setbacks.

For Enugu, it promises closer ties to federal projects, potentially accelerating infrastructure like railways and airports. However, critics worry about diluting regional identity or alienating PDP loyalists. Nationally, it bolsters APC's presence in the South East, aiding President Tinubu's inclusive governance narrative.

Mbah addressed concerns directly: "Will the voice of Enugu be heard now in Abuja? How will the change affect our progress at home?" He affirmed that representation will strengthen, projects will continue, and service to people remains paramount.

Public Reactions to Peter Mbah Defection to APC

Reactions on social media and news platforms have been mixed. Some view it as a "smart survival strategy" amid PDP woes, while others decry it as "disappointment and disdain on electorates." One X user posted, "If truly the vote counts, Nigerians will not be witnessing this madness," reflecting voter frustration.

Supporters praise the alignment for development, with comments like "Big political move or smart survival strategy?" Others highlight APC's gains: "Enugu shakes up!" as Mbah claims the move ensures Enugu's voice in Abuja.

PDP figures have yet to respond formally, but the defection exacerbates the party's challenges, as noted in headlines like "PDP woes worsen."

Peter Mbah Defection to APC: Looking Ahead

As Enugu embarks on this new chapter, Mbah's call for understanding and support resonates. "This is not a detour, but a conscious step towards a more compelling future," he said. With gratitude to President Tinubu, Mbah envisions a partnership driving growth.

This shift underscores the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where alliances form around development and power. For Enugu residents, the proof will be in sustained progress. As Mbah reiterated, "Tomorrow is here," now under the APC banner.

In summary, Peter Mbah's defection to APC is driven by a quest for fair representation, federal alignment, and transformative partnerships. While it stirs debate, it positions Enugu for potential gains in Nigeria's evolving political landscape. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.