News Investigators/ Reactions have continued to trail the defection of Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mr Mbah, in his statewide broadcast on Tuesday morning in Enugu, cited the lingering division within the PDP and the need to connect Enugu State to government at the centre as his reasons for joining the APC.
Reacting to Mr Mbah’s broadcast, the member representing Enugu South State Constituency in Enugu State House of Assembly, Obiajulu Ugwu, commended the governor for moving to the national ruling party.
Ms Ugwu said that the defection would enable the state to enjoy more dividends of democracy, adding that Enugu could not continue to play opposition politics.
“The governor’s decision is a bold and strategic move that will bring more federal presence to our dear state. It’s time Enugu aligned with the centre for meaningful development.
“For years, Enugu has been sidelined due to partisan politics. With this move, I believe the doors of development will open wider for our people,” Ugwu said.
Also, the Chairman of Igbo-Etiti Local Government Area, Dr Eric Odo, described the defection as a step in the right direction, stressing that it would strengthen collaboration between the state and the Federal Government.
“Our governor has shown leadership and foresight. This alignment will create more opportunities for young people in terms of employment, empowerment and inclusion in federal projects,” Odo said.
However, a PDP member in Edem in Enugu East LGA, Mr John Ugwu, criticised the governor’s defection, describing it as a betrayal of trust and an act of political opportunism.
“The governor rode to power on the back of the PDP and the goodwill of our members. To abandon the party at a time like this is disappointing and against the spirit of loyalty and consistency,” Ugwu said.
He added that in spite the setback, the PDP remained strong and would continue to serve as a credible opposition in the state.
“We will re-organise, re-strategise, and remain committed to the ideals of democracy and good governance, Enugu people know where they stand,” Ugwu maintained.
Some political observers said that the defection could significantly alter the political arrangement in Enugu State ahead of the next general elections.
NAN