Mbah Aligns with Tinubu, Says Defection to APC Will Fast-Track Enugu’s Growth

Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as “not just a leader of our nation, but a partner in purpose.”

Speaking at a press conference in Enugu on Tuesday, Mbah said his decision to join the ruling party was driven by a desire to accelerate the state’s development through closer alignment with the Federal Government’s reform agenda.

“I have found in His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, not just a leader of our nation, but a partner in purpose — a man with the courage to look beyond today and make the tough choices that secure lasting prosperity for tomorrow,” Mbah said.

The governor noted that both he and the President share a commitment to bold and transformative development, particularly in infrastructure, economic empowerment, and social services.
“Transformation must be bold and disruptive — our roads, railways, and airlines must stretch out from the heart of the South East,” he said. “The President has shown not only interest but a deep and vested commitment to Enugu, recognising our region as a pillar of national progress.”

Mbah added that his political philosophy aligns with Tinubu’s belief in grassroots development and decentralised growth.
“Renewal must reach the ward, the village, and the grassroots — to the farmer, trader, and young entrepreneur. Reforms come alive in their daily lives,” he explained.

The governor expressed support for the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Ward Development Programme, saying its decentralised investment model complements Enugu’s ward-based development initiatives.

He also commended President Tinubu’s economic reforms — including subsidy removal and foreign exchange unification — as tough but necessary decisions to stabilise the nation’s economy.
“These are the smart choices that free up resources for investment in our people. The President has shown he is not afraid to make difficult decisions for a fair and stable Nigeria. Here in Enugu, we have been just as audacious,” he said.

Mbah stressed that his defection was motivated by the need to secure stronger federal collaboration and resources to complete and expand key projects across Enugu State.
“This move is bigger than politics; it is about alignment at scale. It’s about connecting Enugu’s destiny to the central hub of reforms shaping our nation’s future,” he stated.

Acknowledging that his defection might raise concerns, the governor assured residents that he remains committed to serving them with integrity and focus.
“I will continue to represent Enugu with the same strength of purpose as I always have. This is a new chapter, and I ask Ndi Enugu for understanding and continued support,” Mbah said.

The defection marks one of the most significant political realignments in the South-East, signalling growing cracks within the PDP and a shifting power dynamic in the region’s political landscape.