Peter Mbah, Enugu State Governor, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mbah announced his decision on Tuesday during a press conference in Enugu, saying the move was aimed at advancing the state’s interests through a stronger partnership with the ruling party at the centre.
He said his defection followed a long period of reflection, adding that the APC’s vision under President Bola Tinubu aligns with his own goal of driving sustainable development in Enugu and across the South-East.
Today, after a long period of reflection, we have decided to leave the PDP and join the APC. We share a vision that transformation must be disruptive, Mbah stated.
“I have found in His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a partner in purpose, a man with the courage to look beyond today and make the tough choices that secure lasting prosperity for tomorrow.
The governor, who was accompanied by his predecessor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, federal and state lawmakers, and top political figures in Enugu, said the decision was a collective one made by his political family.
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According to him, “This is no whimsical decision. It is a collective move by the political family in Enugu State, comprising members of the National Assembly, members of the State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, all local government chairmen, councillors, political appointees, and over 80% of party executives.”
Mbah also expressed optimism that the defection would ensure that the voice of Enugu people and indeed that of the South-East would now be heard in Abuja.
While thanking the PDP, for its past support, Mbah lamented that the South-East had often been sidelined in national politics despite its loyalty to the party.
According to Mbah,” the Peoples Democratic Party which provided us the platform on which we campaigned and won, I extend deep gratitude,” he said. “But despite our loyalty, our voices were too often disregarded.”
“Let me be clear, I will represent our state and our region with the same strength of purpose as I have always done. Our Igbo DNA does not change; our destiny does not change. What changes is that our vision now finds stronger reinforcement at the federal level.
“The progress you see today will not slow, and the projects we have begun will be completed. Yes, there have been challenges and delays along the way, but make no mistake – schools, hospitals, roads, and our services will be finished as promised.
“To the political elite across the South East, I say this: our people are watching. What they care about most are results. True leadership is about service to the people, not service to self. Principles, not personalities, must guide us.
“To Ndi Enugu, let me say this: this will not break our stride. We are a force of endeavour, and we need an ally who can match our ambition.
“Let me reassure you – this is not a detour, but a conscious step towards a more compelling future”.
