ENUGU — Speculation is mounting within the political circles of Enugu State that Governor Peter Mbah may be reconsidering his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Sources close to the Government House suggest the Governor is increasingly wary of a backlash from the electorate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Governor’s perceived disquiet reportedly intensified over the weekend following a high-level meeting with key Enugu stakeholders. The group reportedly voiced deep frustration over the biting economic hardship facing the state’s residents, linking the struggle to the current federal administration’s policies.
The ‘Marginalization’ Factor
According to sources present at the meeting, the stakeholders expressed concern that the South-East remains sidelined in the distribution of major developmental projects, which they claim are currently concentrated in the North and South-West.
“There is a growing feeling that Enugu has been left behind despite the Governor’s alignment with the center,” a source familiar with the discussions stated. “This discontent is being viewed as a warning signal that the APC brand may be a difficult sell in the state come 2027.”
The Peter Obi Shadow
Central to Mbah’s reported anxiety is the enduring influence of Peter Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate now expected to fly the flag of the newly formed National Democratic Coalition (NDC).
The 2023 “Obi Wave” nearly cost Mbah the governorship, as the Labour Party swept several legislative seats across the state. Insiders claim Mbah confided in associates that he is desperate to avoid a repeat of that “harrowing experience.” This has led to whispers that the Governor may be open to a tactical “backdoor” negotiation with the Obi camp to safeguard his second-term bid.
Internal Rivalries and Unmet Expectations
Compounding the Governor’s dilemma is the reported return of his arch-rival, former Minister Nnaji, to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Sources suggest Mbah feels his expectations within the APC have remained largely unmet, leaving him politically vulnerable.
“He is contemplating his options,” another source revealed. “If the APC continues to lose ground in the South-East, working against the party to save his own seat is not off the table.”
As of press time, efforts to reach the Governor’s media team for a formal reaction were unsuccessful, as calls and messages to his handlers remained unanswered.
