The Senior Special Assistant to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Community Engagement (South East), Chioma Nweze, has described the defection of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a major political turning point for the South East region.
Reacting to the development on Tuesday, Nweze praised Governor Mbah’s move as both courageous and strategic, saying it reflects growing support for President Tinubu’s leadership in a region long considered politically distant from the ruling party.
“This is more than just a defection because it is a signal of the new political reality emerging in the South East,” Nweze said in a statement issued to the press.
“Governor Mbah’s decision to join the APC is a clear indication that the people of the South East are recognizing the inclusive and responsive leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
According to Nweze, Tinubu’s administration has made deliberate efforts to integrate the South East into national governance through key appointments, infrastructure projects, and economic empowerment initiatives.
“The South East has witnessed a renewed sense of belonging under President Tinubu.
"From the appointment of competent Igbo sons and daughters into strategic positions to the expansion of federal projects in the region, it is evident that this administration values unity and equitable development,” she stated.
Nweze further expressed optimism that more political leaders and stakeholders in the region would follow Mbah’s example in the coming months.
“With this bold move by Governor Mbah, I foresee a collapse of partisan divisions in the South East.
"Many other leaders are watching and will also align with the APC, which now represents a credible platform for regional growth and national relevance.”
She urged citizens from the region both at home and in the diaspora to support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which she said is already fostering peace, stability, and prosperity across Nigeria.
Governor Peter Mbah’s defection marked a significant realignment in Enugu State politics and may have ripple effects on the political landscape of the South East ahead of the 2027 general elections.
