As Nigeria moves closer to the landmark 2027 general elections, shifts in the political landscape are coming into sharp focus, especially in the South-East geopolitical zone. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has expressed its determination to gain significant ground across this region, which has traditionally been a stronghold for opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
In a development that could reshape local and national alliances, reports indicate that Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah is poised to leave the PDP and join the APC in a formal declaration set for Tuesday next week. If confirmed, this would mark a major boost for the APC’s strategy in the South-East and potentially trigger a wave of political realignments across neighboring states.
Local party structures are already being adjusted in anticipation of this change. At a ceremony in Enugu, both national and state APC leaders inaugurated a new seven-member caretaker committee to steer the party’s activities in the state. Committee members include Dr. Ben Nwoye as chairman, Hon. Eugene Odoh as secretary, and members such as Fidelia Njoeze, Peter Chime, Dr. Oby Ajih, Dr. Chiedozie Nwafor, and Emma Ekeh. This move follows the party’s decision to dissolve the previous state working committee, which officials say was done in strict accordance with legal and party procedures.
National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, highlighted the importance of unity and hard work for the party’s ambitions in the region. In his address during the inauguration, he called on the new committee to mobilise support, stating that “we are working towards elections. We want to ensure that we have overwhelming success and outing in 2027.” Yilwatda emphasized that the Renewed Hope Agenda, the APC-led administration’s platform, had already delivered tangible projects, notably in the health sector. He cited the establishment of three out of six promised cancer centres nationwide and the revitalization of over 6,000 of the 10,000 targeted primary health centres. According to Yilwatda, these achievements serve as proof that the party keeps its promises and maintains public trust.
The APC chairman also referenced changes in federal revenue sharing, claiming that the Renewed Hope Agenda had improved allocations distributed by the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC). Yilwatda noted that, “in 2023, 24 states were reportedly struggling to pay salaries, and even among 12 states that met obligations, many relied on borrowing. Now, with improved monthly disbursements averaging N2.25 trillion, more states can invest in social projects.” (All figures as stated by APC officials in Enugu; independent verification is ongoing).
Yilwatda challenged the new committee to collaborate closely with Governor Mbah to further advance the “Renewed Hope Agenda” at both state and federal levels. “You are the foot soldiers… Promote it. Sell it. Do well as a government,” he urged. He described fiscal improvements and an increased project rollout as evidence of progress, encouraging party faithful to connect these successes to grassroots mobilisation for 2027.
After the inauguration, Dr. Ben Nwoye, the caretaker committee chairman, spoke to journalists on the group’s vision. “We will hit the ground running to ensure that Enugu State and the entire South-East region become active participants in national governance,” he claimed. Dr. Nwoye revealed that Governor Mbah had already “agreed to join the party and support the Renewed Hope agenda of President Bola Tinubu.” If this report is confirmed, it would mark an end to nearly a decade in which Enugu State remained exclusively under opposition control.
The political shift may not stop at the governor alone. According to Dr. Nwoye, a swath of local officials may defect with him: “The governor is coming in with 260 ward councillors… 24 members of the State House of Assembly, members of the National Assembly, and the entire Executive Council.” Should all these figures cross over to the APC as reported, it would dramatically alter the political equation in Enugu and potentially influence voting patterns across the South-East in 2027.
Some analysts caution, however, that transitions of this scale can be complex. Lagos-based political observer Chidi Eze points out that while mass defections generate attention, the full integration of new members, especially those from different political backgrounds, can take time. “It’s not just about numbers. Aligning on policy, managing internal competition, and delivering on promises are essential if the APC aims to build lasting trust in these communities,” Eze explained in a recent regional analysis.
The proposed merger of the governor’s local reform initiatives with the APC’s national platform could lead to fresh policy directions or even trigger reforms that set new benchmarks for governance in the South-East. Enugu’s recent efforts to improve infrastructure, education, and healthcare have drawn positive feedback from constituents. “Governor Mbah’s administration has shown a willingness to innovate, but how this will fit within the APC’s broader national priorities remains to be seen,” commented Ifeoma Okonkwo, a journalist specializing in South-East affairs.
Perspectives from the grassroots reflect both excitement and skepticism. Uche Obi, a business owner in Enugu, said: “People want progress. If joining the APC brings more projects and jobs, many will support it. But Nigerians have seen promises before, so we need to see real action.” On social media, reactions to the impending defection have been mixed, ranging from praise for political pragmatism to questions about long-term loyalty and accountability.
The South-East has historically presented unique challenges for the APC. In the 2023 elections, opposition parties such as the Labour Party and PDP performed strongly in the region, especially in Enugu. Dr. Nwoye’s assertion that “never again” will the opposition dominate there signals a bold intent, but converting declarations into votes will require effective mobilisation, inclusive policies, and continuing dialogue with constituents.
For now, all eyes are on Tuesday, 14th October 2024, when the expected defection may take place. Observers across Nigeria and the wider West African community are following developments closely, as political shifts in Enugu often ripple across the region, influencing broader debates on governance and democratic participation.
The stakes are high, and the unfolding story in Enugu could offer new lessons in coalition building, party integration, and the relationship between local and national ambitions. As voices from government, civil society, and ordinary citizens join the conversation, the choices made here will likely shape not only the 2027 elections but the future trajectory of politics in the South-East and beyond.
Do you think large-scale defections like this can deliver lasting change, or are more grassroots reforms needed to truly transform local communities? Share your thoughts below and follow us for all the latest political updates.
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