By Uche Aneke

In Nigerian politics, the move from one party to another is often dismissed as mere opportunism, the desperate dance of a politician seeking a new home. But when Governor Ndubuisi Mbah of Enugu State crossed the aisle from the PDP to the ruling APC on October 14, 2025, it wasn’t a dance of desperation.

It was a calculated, cold-blooded manoeuver of a man who understands that in the theater of power, sitting on the sidelines is not a strategy; it is a death sentence for a state’s ambitions.

At the time, the backlash was predictable. The pundits in Enugu, comfortable in their ideological silos and tribal echo chambers, scoffed.

They cried “betrayal” and clung to the old sentiments of party identity. But Mbah wasn’t playing to the gallery. He was playing for the future.

I remember standing in the crowd the day he delivered his speech, “Charting a New Course: Transition from PDP to APC.” The air was tense, but his tone was steady. He didn’t offer the usual platitudes about “cross-carpeting.” Instead, he laid out a doctrine of “fair partnership.

“This is not a whimsical decision,” he told us, his voice cutting through the murmurs of the crowd. “This is a strategic necessity to secure the future of Enugu.”

He wasn’t just talking about politics; he was talking about infrastructure, investment, and relevance. He knew that for Enugu to evolve from a civil service state into an economic powerhouse, it needed more than good intentions.

It needed a seat at the table where the federal purse strings are pulled.
If you want to see the strategy in motion, look at the President’s recent state visit to the United Kingdom. When the cameras panned across the President’s delegation, there was Governor Mbah.

That didn’t happen by accident.
That trip was a master class in soft power. While others were waiting for federal appointments or pleading for attention from the sidelines, Mbah was inside the room, shoulder-to-shoulder with the President, leveraging the intimacy of the delegation to court international investors.

He turned a state visit into a business development summit, directly connecting global capital to the untapped opportunities in Enugu. That is the hallmark of a strategist: he doesn’t wait for doors to open; he builds the hinges.

Critics have gone silent, and for good reason. The “dividends of alignment” are no longer theoretical; they are visible across the state. During the APC State Congress at Okpara Square on March 3, 2025, Mbah didn’t need to boast, the facts did the talking.

He pointed to the concessioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport. Getting the President to approve a private-sector takeover of a cargo terminal isn’t just bureaucracy; it’s a historic feat.

When that hub is fully operational, Enugu will no longer be a landlocked state. It will be a gateway to the world.

Then there is the Eastern rail line connection. Ask any farmer in Enugu what it means to move produce without the nightmare of broken-down trucks on failing federal roads, and they will tell you that rail is the heartbeat of commerce.

Combine that with the South-East Development Commission’s “50-50” vision, a high-pressure gas pipeline that promises to unlock over $2 billion in dormant economic activity and you realize the scope of Mbah’s ambition.

He is literally piping wealth into the state.
Governor Mbah has forced a rethink of what it means to lead. He has proven that when a leader is willing to absorb the short-term heat of criticism, they can buy long-term prosperity for their people.

He didn’t just join a party; he leveraged a platform. By bridging the gap between Enugu’s regional needs and the federal government’s agenda, he has moved the state from the periphery to the frontline.

The pundits can talk about “party loyalty” until they are blue in the face, but the people of Enugu have a different metric for success: progress.

Governor Mbah is a rare breed, a leader who operates with the cold, hard logic of a chess master.

He has successfully traded political nostalgia for actual power, and in doing so, he has guaranteed that when the heavy decisions are made about the future of Nigeria, Enugu will not just be in the room, it will be a leading voice at the table.

Uche Aneke
A Political commentator and Public Affairs Analyst from
Ukehe, Enugu State
Ucheaneke5@gmail.com
08033481569

By Francis Ede

If you look around you, three years ago, there was no Enugu Air but now we have Enugu Air which is one of the biggest national players in the aviation industry with a target of over nine aircrafts in its fleet this year.

The story of Enugu Air is one of the most engaging narratives about what determination, resilience and focus can do to drive business even in the face of great obstacles.

Still on the aviation sector, if you look around you, three years ago, the Akanu Ibiam International Airport was almost moribund, but now Governor Peter Mbah has infused life into it with the payment of #10 billion equity contribution to the concessioning of the Airport, and very soon the international wing will be operational and passengers can fly from Enugu Airport to various cities of the world.

If you look around you, you will observe that three years ago before Barr Peter Mbah was sworn in as the governor of Enugu State, there were no CNG buses plying across the state but now there are over 100 CNG ultra modern buses covering different routes and reducing costs for passengers.

And very soon before the end of this year there will over 2000 Smart Cars for taxi which will be given out to operators to make transportation within our cities a jolly ride for passengers.

And this is in addition to already commissionsed ultramodern bus terminals in designated parts of Enugu State.

If you look around you, you would have observed that three years ago, what is now the reigning International Conference Center Enugu with a 5000 sitting capacity and a 5 Star International Conference Hotel of 360 beds that is nearing completion was just an abandoned project that trapped the resources of Enugu State for over 20 years, and over looked by two previous state governments but that same facility has now made Enugu State the Conference Center of the world, promoting tourism services and raking in so much revenue to the state.

It is the same story with the Iconic Hotel Presidential Enugu built by Michael Okpara Eastern Region Government but pillaged by past administrations but now stands in a majestic aura of its return to glory by the singular commitment of the administration of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.

Again if you look around you, the 5 Star 300 beds International Hospital was not there three years ago. It came into being by the well thought out health policy of the administration of Governor Peter Mbah.

That hospital which will soon be commissioned will offer the best medical services in the country, and has a potential to attract patients from outside Nigeria.

The building of 260 type 2 hospitals across the 260 wards in Enugu State, if you check the records were not there before Governor Peter Mbah came into office.

If you look around you, the building of 260 Smart Green Schools which has provided over 7000 well equipped classrooms to our children within the last two years had been applauded as not just being very innovative but a concerted state policy to equip our children with 21st century skills.

Three years ago, our movements were regulated and restricted on particular days and weeks by non state actors who orders that we should sit at home on Mondays or any other time that catches their fancy.

Killings and abduction were all around us as insecurity reached it’s peak and fear spread very fast amongst an otherwise gallant and brave populace.

But now we can go to work when we want to go to work and sit at home when we want to sit at home as the security system instituted by Enugu State Government is top-notch with Central Security Control Command and is being copied by other states across Nigeria.

Just three years ago, United Palm Limited, Emenite Aluminum Limited, Nigergas, Niger Steel, Sunrise Floor Mill etc were all grounded, wrecked and comatose but most them are now revived and functioning at optimal capacity under Governor Peter Mbah.

And if you look around you, it would be very obvious that three years ago, there was no Geographic Information System in Enugu State, and the multiple urban and rural roads that the government of Governor Peter Mbah Is building were not there nor the other life giving projects that are designed to provide quality services and better life for the people of Enugu State.

Finally, the last three years of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has been a significant moment in our history.

And let no one diminish what the government has been able to do in bringing democracy dividends to the people of Enugu State within this short period under review.

And just like other Senatorial Zones in the state were able to serve out their two terms of 8 years in office as governor of Enugu State, Enugu East Senatorial Zone deserves to serve out its own 8 years term of office.

And thus spoke our people that Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah’s second term of office as Governor of Enugu State is rest assured.

The All Progressives Congress in Enugu State has rejected reports suggesting internal unrest, insisting that allegations of mass resignations and unpaid delegate stipends are unfounded and misleading.

In a statement released on Sunday, the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Uche Obute, described the claims as fabricated narratives aimed at creating unnecessary tension within the party.

He maintained that there has been no dissatisfaction among delegates who participated in the recent national convention, dismissing reports of agitation over welfare issues as baseless.

Reacting to speculations about members leaving the party due to alleged marginalisation, the APC argued that its strength in the state has, in fact, continued to grow.

The party attributed this to what it described as the inclusive leadership approach of Peter Mbah.

According to the statement, the party has consolidated its presence across Enugu, claiming that key political office holders—including members of the National Assembly, State Assembly, as well as local government chairmen and councillors—are aligned with its structure.

The APC further emphasized that both longstanding members and newer entrants are adequately represented within its leadership framework.

It cited figures such as Oby Ajih and Ben Nwoye as examples of inclusiveness across different blocs.

Reaffirming unity under the state chairman, Martin Chukwunweike, the party urged members and the public to disregard what it called sponsored misinformation.

It expressed confidence that such reports would not undermine its cohesion or its preparations toward strengthening its position ahead of future elections.

The African Democratic Congress has released revised lists of its convention planning committee and subcommittees as part of ongoing preparations for its upcoming national convention.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, explained that the update is intended to enhance coordination and ensure a seamless and credible convention process.

According to the party, the move forms a critical part of its broader strategy to adequately prepare for the national convention scheduled to hold on Tuesday, April 14, 2026.

The updated committee list, which was signed by the National Organising Secretary, Chinedu Idigo, outlines key appointments into the convention planning structure.

The party urged all appointed members to carry out their responsibilities diligently and called on stakeholders to support the process.

At the centre of the planning structure is the National Convention Central Coordination Committee, chaired by Liyel Imoke, with Aminu Tambuwal serving as deputy chairman.

The development comes amid ongoing leadership challenges within the party and a standoff with the Independent National Electoral Commission, which has suspended recognition of the faction led by David Mark pending the outcome of court proceedings.

Despite these legal and internal hurdles, the ADC has reaffirmed its determination to proceed with its congresses and the national convention as part of efforts to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The push for the creation of Anioma State has triggered sharp disagreements among federal lawmakers, particularly over the proposed location of the state capital and its implications for the South-East’s quest for geopolitical balance.

At the heart of the debate are Ned Nwoko and Ikenga Ugochinyere, who hold differing views on both the capital city and the broader political direction of the proposed state.

The controversy follows a statement by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who in March 2026 reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to the creation of Anioma State, proposing Asaba as its capital.

According to Akpabio, the move is expected to drive development and foster shared prosperity across the affected communities.

He also suggested that Warri could serve as the capital of a restructured Delta State following the creation of Anioma.

Building on this momentum, Nwoko, a leading advocate of the proposal, recently led a delegation of traditional rulers from the Anioma region to meet with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, who heads the House Committee on Constitution Review.

During the engagement, Nwoko emphasized the long-standing demand for an additional state in the South-East to address what many describe as a structural imbalance.

He noted that while the North-West has seven states and most other regions have six, the South-East remains with only five—an issue often linked to disparities in federal representation and resource allocation.

However, Ugochinyere countered that support from the South-East would depend on conditions that directly address the region’s core demand.

He maintained that the primary objective remains the creation of an additional state within the South-East itself.

According to him, while the Anioma proposal may have merit, broader acceptance would require alignment with the South-East’s interests, including the location of the capital within the region.

He suggested that a separate proposal—Anim State, to be carved out of parts of Anambra and Imo—better reflects the aspirations of the South-East.

…Declares “It’s Over For APC”

The Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) has officially unveiled its digital membership registration portal in Enugu as part of an aggressive grassroots expansion strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The party said the initiative is aimed at onboarding at least two million new members statewide, beginning with a strong mobilization drive in the three senatorial zones of the state.

In a statement made available to journalists in Enugu on Sunday, the Acting Publicity Secretary of the party in the state, Engr. Dr. Samuel Ugochukwu, described the portal launch as a major milestone in the party’s growth and modernization efforts.

He noted that the digital platform would simplify the registration process, enhance accessibility and position the party as a forward-thinking political movement ready to challenge the status quo.

According to Ugochukwu, the NDC is poised to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape, expressing confidence that the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) would be unseated in the next general elections.

He said, “the launch of this portal marks a new chapter for our party. We are leveraging technology to bring Nigerians, especially young people, into active political participation. With the momentum we are building, it is clear that the days of the APC in power are numbered.”

The party also released a step-by-step guide to ease the registration process for prospective members.

“Interested Nigerians are required to visit the party’s official website at ndcnigeria.com and click on the “Join Us” or “Register” option located at the top right corner of the homepage.”

“After selecting the registration option, users are expected to fill in their personal details, including name, email address and phone number, before submitting the form.”

“Upon successful registration, new members can log in to their dashboard, navigate to the “My Card” section and download their official membership card instantly.”

Ugochukwu encouraged Ndi Enugu across all demographics to take advantage of the seamless process and become part of what he described as a “people-driven movement committed to national transformation.”

Popular Nollywood actor, Azubuike Michael, widely known as Zubby Michael, has officially stepped into the political arena, becoming a registered member of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Anambra State.

The actor completed his registration on Saturday in his hometown of Ozubulu, marking a significant shift from the entertainment industry to active political participation.

His move was made public through a video shared on his Instagram page, where he was seen receiving his membership card from his ward chairman.

In a caption accompanying the video, Zubby Michael hinted at his readiness to go beyond social media commentary and engage directly in the political process.

“I dey my village, enough of the talking online, I don involve,” he wrote, signaling a more hands-on approach to national issues.

Although voices in the background of the video suggested a possible ambition for elective office, including a potential run for a seat in the House of Representatives, the actor has yet to make any formal declaration regarding his political aspirations.

Zubby Michael’s entry into politics reflects a growing trend of Nollywood personalities transitioning into public service, leveraging their popularity and influence to connect with grassroots communities.

His decision is seen by observers as part of a broader realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The development also comes at a time when the ADC is experiencing increased visibility and membership growth across the country, positioning itself as a formidable opposition platform in the evolving political landscape..

Fresh controversy has emerged over alleged past social media posts linked to the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, sparking renewed debate about his political neutrality.

The claims suggest that the electoral chief may have made comments perceived as supportive of the All Progressives Congress (APC) during the 2023 general elections.

However, INEC has firmly denied the allegations.

The issue gained public attention after a US-based Nigerian academic, Farooq Kperogi, published a column referencing archived posts from an X account allegedly bearing Amupitan’s name.

He argued that the posts raise concerns about the independence of Nigeria’s electoral umpire and called for the chairman’s resignation.

Among the quoted posts was a message expressing excitement over electoral outcomes, including claims of strong performance in local polling units and praise of youth collaboration during elections.

These excerpts have since circulated widely online, fueling heated discussions.

The allegations have divided public opinion.

Some Nigerians insist the posts, if authentic, raise serious ethical questions about the neutrality expected of the head of an electoral commission.

Others, however, argue that the evidence is inconclusive, pointing out that the account in question appears to have undergone changes and may not be directly linked to the INEC chairman.

INEC, through its Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, dismissed the claims, describing them as misleading and warning against misinformation spread by impersonators and cybercriminals.

The commission reiterated that Prof. Amupitan does not operate the X account being referenced.

While the debate continues online, some commentators have used the controversy to call for broader electoral reforms to strengthen transparency in the appointment and independence of electoral officials.

INEC maintained its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, urging the public to rely only on verified official communication channels.