Enugu State entered a new political era on Monday, October 13, 2025, as Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC), signaling one of the most significant political realignments in the state’s recent history.
The defection ceremony, held at Michael Okpara Square, drew thousands of enthusiastic supporters, political stakeholders, and party loyalists from all 17 local government areas of the state. The event not only consolidated Governor Mbah’s position as a key political figure in the South East but also sent ripples through Nigeria’s national political scene.
Shortly after the announcement, the Enugu State chapter of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), led by Sidney Okey Edeh, pledged its full support for the governor’s move. In a statement, ALGON described the defection as “a progressive leap forward” and “a bold and strategic step towards realigning Enugu with the national mainstream.”
“For years, Governor Mbah showed extraordinary patience and commitment in trying to reform and stabilize the PDP,” ALGON stated. “But the party’s internal crises and perceived marginalization of the South East left no room for progress. His decision to join the APC is not an act of rebellion but a step of renewal and destiny.”
Edeh added that the move was the result of “deep reflection and statesmanship,” describing the governor as a leader guided by service rather than self-interest.
The rally at Okpara Square was a spectacle of solidarity. Local government chairmen, cabinet members, community leaders, and grassroots mobilizers turned out waving brooms the APC’s symbol to welcome the governor into his new political home.
According to ALGON, its members’ decision to follow the governor into the APC reflects their trust in his leadership and shared development vision. “Governor Mbah has shown capacity, intellect, and integrity. He has opened up Enugu to innovation, investment, and development,” the group said.
Governor Mbah’s defection attracted high-profile attendance from the APC national leadership, underscoring the significance of the event. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
Also present were APC National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Senators Orji Uzor Kalu and Rochas Okorocha, and former APC National Chairman Adams Oshiomhole, among others.
Their presence affirmed Mbah’s new status as the leader of the APC in Enugu State and a major political player in the South East.
Governor Mbah used the occasion to reaffirm his “Tomorrow is Here” mantraan agenda centered on innovation, service delivery, and transformational governance. ALGON Chair Hon. Edeh described the governor’s speech as “visionary and inspiring,” noting that it emphasized unity, inclusion, and performance.
ALGON also announced that all 17 local government chairmen in Enugu State will fully align with the governor’s political direction and work closely with the APC to deepen development at the grassroots.
“The recent decision by the APC National Working Committee to dissolve the Enugu State Executive Committee and install a Caretaker Committee marks a new beginning for the party in the state,” Edeh said. “This is not merely a political change it is a movement of purpose, designed to reposition Enugu for prosperity and inclusion.”
Political analysts say Mbah’s defection could significantly shift the political balance in the South East. With growing defections from the PDP and heightened enthusiasm among APC supporters, the governor’s move is expected to strengthen Enugu’s ties with the federal government and attract new development partnerships.