By Buchi Odoh

In the ever-shifting landscape of Nigerian politics, Enugu State finds itself at a crossroads following Governor Peter Mbah’s high-profile defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in October 2025. This move, which saw Mbah bring along his entire cabinet, 17 local government chairmen, and around 80% of PDP executives, has sparked intense debate. For some, it’s a pragmatic step toward better alignment with the federal government for development. But for others, it’s a betrayal that ties Enugu to what they describe as the “cancer ravaging the entire nation”, a metaphor for the APC’s governance challenges, including economic hardships, insecurity, and perceived marginalization of the Southeast. As the 2027 elections loom, voices are rising, urging Enugu residents to reject this shift and ensure the APC, including the incumbent administration, doesn’t hold power.

Governor Mbah tried to justify his switch by pointing to the PDP’s alleged ill-treatment of the Southeast region. In a statewide broadcast, he argued that despite decades of loyalty from Enugu and the broader Southeast, the PDP failed to offer a “fair partnership” or represent the region’s interests adequately. He emphasized the need for affiliation where the Southeast could gain better representation and support from the federal level. Mbah also cited frustrations within the PDP, such as his inability to secure the national secretary position for his preferred candidate, which reportedly contributed to his discontent. 

Proponents of the defection argue it’s driven by a desire for progress. Mbah has highlighted the need for federal assistance to govern effectively, suggesting the move could unlock resources for infrastructure and development in Enugu. The APC in Enugu has since united its factions, with leaders like Dr. Ben Nwoye and Chief Ugochukwu Agballah resolving disputes to back Mbah for re-election in 2027, aiming to strengthen the party’s hold in the state.

Despite the fact that some people have declared their support for Mbah irrespective of political party, the defection has drawn sharp criticism from majority of Enugu people, with the PDP expressing deep disappointment and accusing defecting governors like Mbah of greed, selfishness, and covetousness. The party argues that such moves undermine democracy and voter trust, especially since Mbah was elected under the PDP banner after a hard-fought campaign. Critics view the APC as a “national cancer” due to ongoing issues under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, such as inflation, fuel scarcity, and security challenges that have affected the entire country, including the Southeast. By aligning with the APC, Mbah is seen by some as carelessly tying Enugu to these problems, prioritizing personal or political survival over regional interests.

Former Rivers Governor Nyesom Wike, a key APC ally, even mocked PDP critics amid the wave of defections, noting how figures once accusing him of destabilizing the PDP are now joining the ruling party. In Enugu, the move has exacerbated internal APC squabbles, with accusations of “political bandits” and leadership styles that drove members away, leading to the party’s poor performance in past elections. A PDP chieftain anonymously described Mbah’s defection as driven more by personal survival than popular support, warning it could alienate voters who feel betrayed. 

This sentiment echoes broader concerns in the Southeast, where the APC now controls three states (Imo, Ebonyi, and Enugu), potentially reshaping the region’s politics ahead of 2027. However, defections like Mbah’s are part of a larger trend, with governors from Delta, Bayelsa, Rivers, and others switching to the APC for similar reasons; alignment with the federal government for protection and resources. Critics argue this erodes party loyalty and could lead to voter backlash, as Nigerians grow weary of politicians jumping ship for personal gain.

As preparations for the 2027 elections intensify, the APC’s expanded footprint in the Southeast presents both opportunities and hurdles. Party chieftains believe the influx of governors and lawmakers will boost bargaining power at the federal level. Yet, opposition figures, including from the PDP and even within the APC’s rivals like the Labour Party or APGA, see an opening to capitalize on discontent. In neighboring Abia, for instance, Governor Alex Otti’s high ratings as a performer contrast with calls for him to join the PDP for a stronger 2027 bid. 

For those urging Enugu to reject the APC, the focus is on reclaiming the state’s independence from what they perceive as a failing national agenda. They argue that the incumbent government, having “carelessly joined the cancer,” must face consequences at the polls to restore accountability. Whether this translates to votes remains uncertain, polls and public sentiment will be key. Some analysts predict the APC’s dominance could solidify if defections continue, but a pushback from voters prioritizing regional autonomy and performance over party labels could reshape the narrative. 

Enugu State’s political drama underscores a timeless truth in Nigerian democracy: loyalty is fluid, but voter power endures. While Mbah’s defection may bring short-term gains, the long-term verdict lies with the people. As calls grow to “put them to shame” in 2027, Enugu residents must weigh development promises against broader national challenges. Ultimately, the election will test whether aligning with the “cancer” heals or harms. A decision that could redefine the Southeast’s role in Nigeria’s political future.