Five members of the House of Representatives from Enugu State have defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing the outstanding performance and visionary leadership of Governor Peter Mbah as their reason for the move.
The lawmakers announced their defection in separate letters read during Thursday’s plenary session presided over by Speaker Abbas Tajudeen. Their decision brings to eight the total number of Enugu federal lawmakers who have joined the ruling party.
Those who defected include Hon. Chidi Mark Obetta (Nsukka/Igboeze South Federal Constituency), Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu (Aninri/Awgu/Oji River), Hon. Dennis Nnamdi Agbo (Igbo-Eze North/Udenu), Hon. Oke Martins (Igbo Etiti/Uzo Uwani), and Hon. Nnolim John Nnaji (Nkanu East/Nkanu West).
The defection was witnessed by the APC National Chairman, Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, and Governor Peter Mbah.
Speaking on behalf of the group, Nnolim Nnaji said their decision was driven by a collective resolve to reposition Enugu State for greater participation in national development.
“For too long, our dear Enugu State has remained in opposition, watching from the sidelines as others shaped the destiny of our nation and accessed opportunities that could have transformed our people’s lives. That era is over,” he said.
According to him, joining the APC would enable their constituencies to connect to the “heartbeat of national development,” ensuring more projects, jobs, and infrastructure for their people.
Nnaji commended Governor Mbah for what he described as his transformational leadership and achievements in education, aviation, technology, and security, saying his performance has made Enugu a model for good governance.
“Through Governor Mbah’s vision and leadership, Enugu has become a reference point for progress. Investors are flooding into the state to take advantage of the fertile environment his administration has created,” he said.
The lawmakers pledged to work with the governor and the APC-led Federal Government to advance the state’s development agenda, calling on political stakeholders to unite for the growth and prosperity of Enugu.
“Together, we are saying yes to a new chapter of unity, opportunity, and growth for Enugu State,” Nnaji said. “Our best days are not behind us — they are just beginning.”
