Governor Mbah Joins APC As Enugu Aligns With Tinubu’s Government

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his decision is aimed at aligning the state with the federal government for greater development.

The governor made the announcement in a state-wide broadcast on Tuesday morning, explaining that Enugu could no longer afford to remain disconnected from the centre. He said his defection was driven by a desire to strengthen the state’s relationship with Abuja and attract more federal support for ongoing projects.

Mbah praised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, noting that Enugu has enjoyed increased federal attention and support since Tinubu assumed office. He said the move would allow his government to consolidate on that progress and bring more benefits to the people of the state.

The governor’s defection was not a solo move, as members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, local government chairmen, councillors, and several political figures joined him in crossing over to the APC. The shift marks a major setback for the PDP, which has long maintained dominance in the South-East region.

Sources revealed that Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri may also be preparing to leave the PDP for the APC, following similar moves earlier in the year by Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno, both of whom defected with their cabinets and appointees.

Observers say these defections signal a growing political realignment across the southern states ahead of the 2026 elections, as more politicians position themselves closer to the centre of power.

A grand reception to formally welcome Governor Mbah into the APC is scheduled to hold in Enugu today, with Vice President Kashim Shettima, APC National Chairman Netanwe Yitwalda, governors, and other party leaders expected to attend.