Peter Mbah defects to APC with top Enugu officials in landmark move set for October 14, boosting ruling party’s presence in South East

Peter Mbah defects to APC in what political observers are calling one of the most significant realignments in the South East since 2015.

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The Governor of Enugu State, Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, is set to formally dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, in Enugu.

Governor Mbah is not making the leap alone. Joining him in this bold political shift will be elected members of the National and State Assemblies, along with key state executive officials, ward, and local government leaders.

The move is expected to redefine political equations in Enugu and bolster the APC’s efforts to gain a firmer foothold in the South East geopolitical zone.

Speaking at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja, Dr. Ben Nwoye, newly appointed Chairman of the Enugu APC Caretaker Committee, confirmed that preparations had been finalised for the governor’s official reception into the ruling party.

“The governor and his appointees will be received into the APC on October 14,” Nwoye stated, following his inauguration by APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and Deputy National Chairman (South), Hon. Emma Eneukwu.

This follows the dissolution of the former Enugu State APC Working Committee and the appointment of a seven-man caretaker committee tasked with reorganising and stabilising the party structure across the state.

The defection comes amidst growing speculation and calls from political allies, including former presidential aide Osita Okechukwu and other stakeholders, urging Governor Mbah to align with the federal ruling party to advance development in the region.

It is widely believed that national integration, strategic alignment, and the pursuit of federal support for key infrastructural projects may have influenced the governor’s decision.

The APC has in recent months intensified its campaign to court high-profile political figures from the South East, positioning itself as a viable national platform for regional leaders.

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The defection is also expected to trigger ripples within the PDP, once considered the dominant party in Enugu State, with insiders warning of internal rifts and further exits in the coming months.