PDP Shrinks to Eight Governors as Enugu’s Gov Mbah, Bayelsa’s Gov Diri Join APC

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has suffered another major setback, retaining only eight governors following the defection of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, and his Bayelsa counterpart, Douye Diri, to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The twin defections have further weakened the opposition party, which had controlled 11 states after the 2023 general elections. With the new developments, the APC now governs 24 states, while the PDP holds eight. The Labour Party (LP), All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) each control one state.

Governor Mbah formally announced his switch to the APC on Tuesday, a move promptly welcomed by the party’s national leadership. Less than 24 hours later, Governor Diri confirmed his own defection in Yenagoa, citing “obvious reasons” for his departure from the PDP.

Remaining PDP Governors:

Adamawa: Ahmadu Fintiri (North-East)

Bauchi: Bala Mohammed (North-East)

Plateau: Caleb Mutfwang (North-Central)

Taraba: Agbu Kefas (North-Central)

Zamfara: Dauda Lawal (North-West)

Oyo: Seyi Makinde (South-West)

Rivers: Siminalayi Fubara (South-South)

Osun: Ademola Adeleke (South-West)


Although there have been rumours of more defections—particularly in Taraba—none have been confirmed so far.

The latest political shake-up comes just days after the Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, voiced concern over the growing number of governors and senior party figures crossing over to the APC.

Speaking in Abuja on Saturday during the inauguration of the party’s convention communication sub-committee, Mohammed admitted that the defections had unsettled the PDP. He, however, noted that efforts were underway to rebuild unity ahead of the party’s national convention scheduled for November 15–16 in Ibadan.

He said, “If you ask me whether I am concerned about our governors leaving for the APC, I am more than concerned. But leadership is a burden. As a leader among equals, I cannot dictate my colleagues’ choices. Nevertheless, a lot of work is going on behind the scenes to stabilize the party.”