A powerful coalition of non-indigenes residing in Enugu State, under the umbrella of Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta and Ebonyi Indigenes in Enugu (AAIDE), has thrown its full weight behind the decision of Peter Ndubuisi Mbah to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing it as a bold and visionary move that aligns with the collective interest of Ndi Igbo and the broader development agenda of the South East.
The declaration was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the group’s extensive meeting held over the weekend at Morehouse, Enugu, where leaders of town unions representing Abia, Anambra, Imo, Delta, and Ebonyi States unanimously resolved to stand solidly behind the governor and his reform-driven administration.
According to the communiqué jointly signed by its Leader, Chief Igwe U. Eke; PRO, Hon. Aduaka Anthony A; Coordinator, Hon. Chidi Udo; and Secretary, Engr. Onyi Odibe, the group commended Governor Mbah for his courage and strategic vision, describing his move to align with the APC as “a statement of hope in progress, partnership, and purposeful governance.”
The coalition hailed the governor’s achievements in transforming Enugu into a model state, pointing to unprecedented progress in infrastructure, security, job creation, and industrial revitalization. They noted that his policies had revived several moribund industries, empowered youths and the middle class, and placed the state ahead of its peers economically.
“Our support for your movement is informed by the visible change in infrastructural development and the economic renaissance Enugu State has witnessed under your watch,” the communiqué read. “No wonder Enugu is now referred to as the safest and most business-friendly state in Nigeria.”
AAIDE also praised Mbah’s inclusive style of governance, which they said has integrated non-indigenes into the political and administrative fabric of the state.
“From the onset of your administration, you promised total reform in the party structure of the state and pledged to integrate people from other states resident in Enugu. We are happy that you have kept to those promises,” the group added.
In what is seen as a significant political endorsement ahead of the 2027 elections, the coalition declared full support for Mbah’s second-term ambition and pledged to mobilize its members and affiliates across the state to ensure his re-election.
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, a former PDP Chairman of Enugu North Local Government Area, Hon. Ernest Onuoha, described Mbah’s defection as “a collective decision of the people of the state,” emphasizing that the governor’s action reflects the will of Ndi Enugu and the larger Igbo community.
“Governor Mbah’s defection is not a personal move; it is a people’s decision—an act of connecting Enugu to the national grid of opportunities. Through this alignment, Enugu will benefit from more federal presence, key appointments, and expanded infrastructure that will accelerate growth,” he said.
He further applauded the governor for his inclusive leadership, stressing that the AAIDE community feels at home in Enugu because of his fairness in governance and appointments.
“Under Governor Mbah, every resident—indigene or non-indigene—has a sense of belonging. That is why we are fully behind him,” he emphasized.
The group concluded by reaffirming its unwavering loyalty and commitment to the Mbah administration, expressing confidence that his partnership with the APC-led federal government will fast-track development in Enugu and further strengthen the state’s position in national politics.
