A new faction of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State has emerged, promising to reclaim the state’s governorship in the 2027 elections following the defection of Governor Peter Mbah to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Mbah, along with members of the state executive council, local government chairmen, PDP officials, and several key stakeholders, including former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, formally joined the APC on Tuesday.

In a statement issued after a stakeholders’ meeting on Thursday night, the newly formed group condemned the governor’s defection, describing it as “cringeworthy” and expressing disappointment that the PDP’s state structure was largely abandoned.

The communique, signed by Dr. Godwin Udibe, Caucus Chairman, and Barr. John Nwobodo, Caucus Secretary, emphasised that while the governor has the constitutional right to join any party, the expectation was for the PDP structure in Enugu to remain intact.

The group reassured party faithful that despite the mass defections, “there are enough competent and progressive members to reposition the party and reclaim the governorship in 2027.”

The meeting resolved to immediately begin rebuilding the party under the banner of New PDP Enugu State, with Dr. Udibe and Barr. Nwobodo leading as Caucus Chairman and Secretary, respectively.

The New PDP faction commended the national leadership of the PDP for ongoing restructuring efforts and lauded preparations for the upcoming national convention. They also welcomed Senator Ben Obi’s appointment as Secretary of the PDP National Convention Organising Committee, replacing Governor Mbah.

The statement concluded with a pledge to reconcile party members in Enugu and to launch a renewed membership drive aimed at attracting progressive members.