Governor Mbah Breaks Silence On Defection Rumours – ‘I’m Not Leaving PDP

During an interactive session with members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) held on Saturday in Enugu, Mbah addressed the defection rumours, assuring his audience that he has no intention of abandoning the party under which he was elected, despite the internal crises the PDP is currently facing.

Dispelling doubts about his political alignment, Mbah said, “I remain a member of the PDP. As you can see, the flag behind me is that of the PDP.” He acknowledged the party’s internal disputes but stressed that such challenges are not unique to the PDP. “Other political parties in Nigeria are equally dealing with their own issues,” he added.

The governor expressed confidence in the party’s ability to overcome its current challenges and emerge stronger. He also emphasized that his administration is focused on delivering good governance and development to the people of Enugu State.

“It’s clear that we are here to serve the people of Enugu, and our focus has been largely on governance. In the end, it is up to the people to decide whether to renew our mandate or vote us out,” Mbah stated.

He also revealed that his main challenger in the 2023 gubernatorial race, Chijioke Edeoga, has returned to the PDP and is now working closely with his administration. “We are now collaborating, and that has significantly reduced political tension and unnecessary spending on conflicts,” he said.

Mbah noted that the political environment in the state has become more peaceful due to this renewed cooperation.

On the issue of independent candidacy in Nigeria, Mbah clarified that the current constitution does not provide for individuals to contest elections without party sponsorship. “The constitution does not allow for independent candidacy; one must be sponsored by a political party, so politics cannot be completely avoided,” he explained.

Meanwhile, former Senate President and PDP Reconciliation Committee Chairman, Bukola Saraki, commented on recent defections within the PDP. He attributed them to the influence of political elites, while noting that the party’s grassroots base remains resilient.

“Across states and local governments, the PDP remains strong at the grassroots despite the turbulence at the top,” Saraki told journalists on Friday.