The political landscape of Enugu State shifted sharply on Thursday as the entire Labour Party structure in Enugu East Local Government Area decamped to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), following Governor Peter Mbah’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Leading the exodus was Chief Afam Joseph Ogbene, popularly known as Akirika Chioku I Na Nike, the Executive Chairman of Umuchigbo Iji Nike and Enugu East Labour Party Chairman. Speaking at a rally in Umuchigbo Iji Nike ward, Ogbene said his decision was inspired by Governor Mbah’s “uncommon and unprecedented developmental strides.”
“When I heard that our amiable and hardworking governor was joining the APC, I became very excited,” Ogbene said. “This is the right time to join forces with him to take Enugu to greater heights. My friends and teeming supporters have also decided to join the APC.”
The rally, which drew a large crowd of supporters, was described by Enugu East Local Government Chairman, Pastor Engr. Beloved-Dan Anike, as “historic.”
“It’s on record that within 48 hours of Governor Mbah’s defection, Enugu East is the only local government hosting the collapse of the Labour Party into the APC,” Anike said.
He lauded Ogbene’s grassroots influence and assured the defectors of full integration. “With his entrance, our work ahead of 2027 will be smoother as we work together to deliver Governor Mbah,” he added.
Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, who represented the governor, welcomed the defectors and emphasized the importance of the South East aligning with the national political mainstream.
“Every Igbo person should join the APC to benefit fully at the national level,” Ogbodo said. “Governor Mbah’s move is a step towards ending the marginalisation of our people.”
He relayed the governor’s goodwill message to the people of Umuchigbo and assured them of inclusive governance under the APC-led administration.
The defecting Labour Party members expressed confidence in their new political home, describing the switch as a new chapter of growth and unity in Enugu East. The development signals another major boost for the APC’s rising momentum across Enugu State.