MEDIA CHAT WITH GOVERNOR PETER MBAH OF ENUGU STATE

MEDIA CHAT WITH GOV. PETER MBAH OF ENUGU STATE: A PIVOTAL POLITICAL SHIFT

In a landmark media engagement held in Enugu on October 14, 2025, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State addressed the public in a televised chat that marked a significant turning point in the state's political trajectory.

The session, which was both reflective and declarative, served as the governor’s formal announcement of his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This move, he emphasized, was not merely political but deeply rooted in conviction and strategic alignment with national development goals.

Governor Mbah began the media chat by expressing profound gratitude to the people of Enugu State, Ndi Enugu, for their unwavering support throughout his administration. He acknowledged the trust they placed in him during a time when public confidence in political leadership was waning. Referencing his campaign mantra “Tomorrow Is Here,” he reiterated his commitment to transformative governance and the pursuit of a future-oriented agenda.

The governor explained that his decision to join the APC was driven by admiration for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s bold economic reforms, particularly the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange market.

These policies, Mbah noted, resonated with his professional background in the oil and gas sector and his long-standing advocacy for economic restructuring. He described the president’s actions as courageous and visionary, stating that they won his heart and solidified his belief in the current federal leadership.

Mbah clarified that his defection was not a matter of political convenience but a principled choice aimed at aligning Enugu State with the federal government to unlock greater developmental opportunities. He stressed that leadership sometimes demands difficult decisions in service of higher ideals and that his move to the APC was a reflection of shared values and a commitment to the future of Enugu.

The media chat also revealed that Mbah was not alone in this political transition. Members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, local government chairmen, councillors, and other top political figures across the state joined him in defecting to the APC. This collective shift signaled a broader realignment within the state’s political landscape, potentially reshaping its engagement with national politics.

Throughout the session, Governor Mbah maintained a tone of optimism and resolve. He called on the people of Enugu to embrace the change and view it as a strategic repositioning for enhanced governance and development. His message was clear: the time had come to chart a new course, break from the past, and build a future anchored in pragmatic leadership and national synergy.

LET’S PEEP A WHILE INTO Mbah’s Recent Defection to APC

Federal-State Collaboration

Governor Peter Mbah’s defection to the All Progressives Congress opens a new chapter in Enugu State’s relationship with the federal government. Historically, states aligned with the ruling party at the center have enjoyed smoother access to federal resources, infrastructure projects, and policy support. With Mbah now part of the APC, Enugu could see increased federal attention, particularly in areas like road construction, power distribution, and agricultural investment. This alignment may also facilitate faster approvals for state-led initiatives that require federal backing, such as special economic zones or industrial corridors. The governor’s emphasis on economic reforms suggests that he may push for collaborative programs that mirror President Tinubu’s national agenda, potentially positioning Enugu as a model for subnational development in the Southeast.

Opposition Response

The defection has undoubtedly sent shockwaves through the ranks of the Peoples Democratic Party, which has long held sway in Enugu State. PDP leaders are likely to view Mbah’s move as a betrayal, especially given the party’s role in his rise to power. There may be calls for disciplinary action or public condemnation, and internal divisions could deepen as members reassess their loyalties. The opposition may also attempt to galvanize public sentiment against the defection, framing it as opportunistic or politically motivated. However, the scale of the defection, reportedly involving lawmakers and local government official, scould weaken the PDP’s organizational strength in the state, making it harder to mount a cohesive response.

Public Sentiment

Among ordinary citizens, reactions to the governor’s defection are likely to be mixed. Some may welcome the move, seeing it as a pragmatic step toward attracting federal investment and improving local infrastructure. Others may feel disillusioned, especially if they voted for Mbah under the PDP banner and now perceive the switch as a breach of trust. The governor’s ability to communicate the rationale behind his decision, and to deliver tangible benefits quickly, will be crucial in shaping public opinion. If residents begin to see improvements in roads, healthcare, education, or employment, initial skepticism may give way to cautious optimism. Conversely, if the defection is followed by political instability or unmet promises, public confidence could erode.

Electoral Impact

With the 2027 general elections on the horizon, Governor Mbah’s defection could significantly alter the political landscape in Enugu and the broader Southeast. The APC may gain a stronger foothold in a region traditionally dominated by opposition parties, potentially reshaping campaign strategies and voter alignments. Mbah’s move could also embolden other regional leaders to consider similar shifts, especially if federal incentives are perceived as contingent on party loyalty. For the PDP, the challenge will be to rebuild its base, reassert its relevance, and present a compelling alternative to voters. 

The defection may also influence the selection of candidates, the tone of political discourse, and the nature of alliances leading up to the elections. 

Ultimately, the electoral impact will hinge on whether Mbah’s new political path translates into visible progress for the people of Enugu.