Wave of defections to APC reveals deepening opposition divisions – VP Shettima
…Welcomes Gov. Peter Mbah, cabinet, and supporters to APC at Enugu Grand Rally
…Says President Tinubu’s inclusive leadership making APC Africa’s most formidable political force
Vice President Kashim Shettima has described the growing wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a clear indication of cracks within the opposition, affirming that the ruling party continues to grow stronger by building bridges where others build walls.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at a grand reception held Tuesday, October 7, 2025, at the Michael Okpara Square in Enugu, the Vice President officially welcomed Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State, members of his cabinet, and thousands of their supporters into the APC fold.
Shettima hailed the defection as not just a political shift but a powerful endorsement of the APC’s vision, values, and governance philosophy under President Tinubu.
“What the opposition has failed to ask is why the APC continues to attract Nigeria’s brightest and most visionary leaders,” the Vice President stated. “These defections are no accident—they are symptoms of deeper discontent within their ranks and a resounding testament to the strength and inclusiveness of the APC.”
He emphasized that while the opposition continues to show signs of internal fractures, the APC is uniting the country under a shared vision of progress, performance, and patriotism.
A Party Built on Trust, Performance, and Inclusion
The Vice President highlighted that APC’s growing dominance is anchored in President Tinubu’s leadership style—marked by inclusiveness, deep listening, and an unwavering commitment to meritocracy.
“President Tinubu is a man for all seasons—his word is his bond. His leadership has transformed APC into the most formidable political family in Africa,” Shettima declared.
Addressing the crowd, he assured Governor Mbah that he was now not only a key player in the APC at the state level but a national figure with a pivotal role to play.
“In line with our party tradition, Your Excellency, you now assume leadership of the APC in Enugu State. You carry the noble challenge of rebuilding our base here and amplifying the voice of the South East in the national conversation.”
“You Always Had a Broom Hidden in Your Umbrella”
In a moment of levity that drew applause from the crowd, Shettima playfully remarked:
“Governor Mbah, I say this with warmth and humour: you’ve always been one of us. I suspect you had a broom hidden in your umbrella all along—just waiting for the right moment to bring it out. Today, you’ve come home, and we couldn’t be happier.”
A Vision for National Integration and South East Advancement
Shettima reiterated that APC’s strength lies in its grassroots structures and relationships built on trust and shared purpose. He commended Mbah’s track record of transformational governance, especially in infrastructure and education, stating that his defection would bring renewed energy to APC’s efforts in the South East.
“You are not a guest here. You are an asset to our movement. Your defection enriches our collective story and gives us stronger footing in a region crucial to Nigeria’s unity and progress,” he added.
Leadership praise from party chieftains
Joining in the celebration, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, applauded Governor Mbah for his bold political realignment.
“You are now in the soul and family of the Progressives. Your achievements in Enugu speak for themselves—and we welcome you home as a true reformer with a progressive heart,” he said.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio commended Mbah’s governance strides in just two years, stating that his performance has made him a natural fit for the progressive fold.
Also speaking, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, described the day as historic for the people of Enugu and a positive turning point for the South East.
“Governor Mbah’s decision shows that the South East is beginning to embrace the national movement for progress. He will be treated equally and fairly within the APC family,” Abbas assured.
Mbah declares for APC: “This is a new beginning”
Declaring his new political affiliation, Governor Peter Mbah described his move as a strategic and collective decision by the political leadership in Enugu State, signalling the region’s readiness to engage more actively with national politics.
“Today marks a new beginning. We are putting an end to segmented politics and joining the national conversation through the APC—the largest political party in Africa. We are here to contribute, to collaborate, and to build,” he declared.
PGF Chair, Uzodinma, welcomes Mbah to the fold
Also present at the rally was Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum (PGF), who expressed optimism that Mbah’s defection would deepen support for President Tinubu in the region.
“With Enugu joining the progressive family, we are taking another major step toward South East integration in the national power structure. Governor Mbah’s entry strengthens our hand and enhances the region’s political relevance,” he said.
With this high-profile defection, the APC continues to solidify its dominance on the national stage, especially in regions where it previously faced strong opposition. As Nigeria approaches a new political era, Tuesday’s event in Enugu may well mark a turning point in the realignment of forces in the South East—and a further testament to President Tinubu’s strategy of national inclusion, dialogue, and reform.
