Enugu State’s capital is abuzz with activity as Governor Peter Mbah and his political appointees are set to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Tuesday. According to Uche Anichukwu, Senior Special Assistant to Mbah on External Relations, the governor’s defection has garnered support from various segments of the state, including the Ohanaeze Ndigbo.

To receive Mbah into the APC are Vice President Kashim Shettima, President of the Senate Godswill Akpabio, and Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas, among other notable figures. The APC National Working Committee, led by National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, will also be in attendance, along with governors, ministers, federal lawmakers, and appointees.

The former Chairman of the APC in Enugu State, Augustine Nnamani, attributes the mass exodus from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the party’s mistreatment and betrayal of the people of the South East. Nnamani stated that the PDP’s failure to recognize Udeh-Okoye as National Secretary, in line with established tradition, led to the crisis and subsequent loss of control in the South East states.

Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide, Enugu State Chapter, has applauded Mbah’s decision to join the APC, citing the need to attract more federal government projects to the state. The apex Igbo socio-cultural body reiterated its commitment to upholding the zoning arrangement in the state, ensuring equity, fairness, and justice.

Traditional rulers and local government officials have also expressed support for Mbah’s decision, citing his trailblazing performance and grassroots-oriented development in the last 26 months. The Chairman of the Enugu State Traditional Rulers Council, Igwe Samuel Asadu, stated that the people of Enugu State have absolute trust in Mbah’s judgement, wishing him the best as he embarks on this new political course.

The defection of Governor Mbah and his appointees to the APC is expected to have significant implications for the political landscape of Enugu State and the South East region. As the state charts a new political course, the focus will be on the potential benefits and challenges that arise from this development.