Governor Peter Mbah Dumps PDP for APC, Cites Federal Alignment for Enugu’s Growth

In a dramatic political shake-up, Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a move confirmed on October 14, 2025, by multiple major outlets including Vanguard and Punch.

The defection, which includes his entire state cabinet and more than 260 local party officials, marks one of the most consequential political realignments in Nigeria’s South-East in recent years.

Speaking at a press briefing held at the Government House, Enugu, Mbah said his decision was guided by a desire to “align Enugu State with the federal government” for what he described as “accelerated development and integration into national growth initiatives.” The governor emphasized that his loyalty lies with the people of Enugu, not party colors. “My vision has always been about service delivery, infrastructure renewal, and creating economic opportunities for our youth. If being in alignment with Abuja ensures progress for our people, then that’s the step we must take,” he declared.

Mbah’s switch is widely viewed as a response to PDP’s deepening internal crisis, coupled with what many southeastern leaders describe as the region’s “growing political isolation.” The PDP, once dominant in the South-East, has seen its influence wane amid leadership disputes and defections to the ruling APC, which now appears poised to consolidate unprecedented influence in traditionally opposition strongholds.

Political analysts suggest that Mbah’s defection could trigger a domino effect, potentially inspiring other PDP governors or prominent figures from the region to follow suit before