Political Earthquake in Enugu: Governor Peter Mbah Dumps PDP, Set to Join APC on October 14

In what observers are describing as a major political realignment with far-reaching implications for the 2027 elections, Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State is set to formally defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, in Enugu, the state capital.

The move, which has been the subject of intense speculation in recent weeks, will officially bring to an end Mbah’s long-standing association with the PDP — the platform under which he was elected governor in 2023.

According to reliable sources within both parties, Mbah’s defection is part of a broader political strategy by the APC to consolidate its presence in the South East, a region traditionally dominated by the opposition. The governor is expected to be received into the APC fold alongside key members of the National and State Assemblies, commissioners, top aides, and political leaders from all 17 local government areas of Enugu State.

Confirming the development, the newly inaugurated Enugu State APC Caretaker Committee Chairman, Dr. Ben Nwoye, told reporters at the APC National Secretariat in Abuja that preparations are in top gear to welcome Governor Mbah and his political structure into the ruling party.

> “Governor Mbah and several top government officials have signified their intention to join the APC. The formal declaration will take place in Enugu on October 14, and it will be a grand event that will change the political dynamics of the South East,” Nwoye said.

The Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Duro Meseko, had earlier hinted at the defection, noting that the party was ready to receive “a major political figure” from the South East.

During the inauguration of the seven-man caretaker committee for the Enugu State APC, the National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, and the Deputy National Chairman (South), Hon. Emma Eneukwu, described the move as a “bold step” toward strengthening the APC’s base in the region.

Political analysts believe Mbah’s move to the APC could trigger a domino effect across the South East, as several PDP heavyweights are reportedly in talks to follow suit. The planned defection also signals a major boost for President Bola Tinubu’s political influence in the region ahead of 2027.

The grand reception in Enugu next week is expected to draw top APC leaders from across the country, including members of the National Working Committee, governors, ministers, and legislators.

If confirmed, Mbah’s defection will mark one of the most dramatic political shifts in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic — one that could reshape the balance of power in the South East and redefine alliances ahead of the next general elections.

Daily Trust