Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State have threatened to stage a protest in Abuja if attempts by some party leaders to block Governor Peter Mbah’s defection to the ruling party continue.
The warning was issued after a meeting of stakeholders from the six local government areas of Enugu East Senatorial Zone. They accused Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, of allegedly working against Mbah’s anticipated move.
Dr. Ben Nwoye, former APC state chairman, said Mbah’s defection would reverse APC’s electoral misfortunes in Enugu, citing the governor’s impressive performance in roads, education, healthcare, and security. Nwoye noted that Mbah’s strides have attracted commendation from President Bola Tinubu despite their political differences.
Chief Anike Nwoga warned that if Nnaji and his allies continued to resist Mbah’s entry, stakeholders would march to the Presidency to demand Nnaji’s removal. Nwoga alleged that some party members want APC to lose in 2027 to maintain their Abuja appointments.
Prof. Hilary Edoga argued that rejecting Mbah would marginalize the Enugu APC, pointing to states like Akwa Ibom and Delta where governors lead the party. Gen. Christian Ugwu pledged support for Mbah’s defection, stressing that competence should be placed above personal ambition.
The stakeholders unanimously called on the APC national leadership to support Mbah’s defection, warning that attempts to frustrate the process could trigger mass protests. They believe Mbah’s defection would bring greater federal attention to Enugu, similar to Imo and Ebonyi.
