A major political realignment has hit Enugu State as all members of the House of Representatives from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the Labour Party (LP) have reportedly defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The mass defection, confirmed on Wednesday, marks one of the most significant political shakeups in the South-East in recent years and could reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Lawmakers Join Ruling Party En Masse
Sources within the National Assembly and APC headquarters revealed that the lawmakers officially declared their defection in Abuja after extensive consultations with party leaders.
The development follows weeks of speculation about growing discontent within the PDP and LP caucuses from the region.
Among those who have switched allegiance is Hon. Sunday Umeha, who represents a constituency in Enugu under the Labour Party. Umeha reportedly joined the APC along with hundreds of supporters and local political stakeholders.
“I decided to align with the ruling party so that my people can feel the presence of the Federal Government,” Umeha said after submitting his membership form at the APC Secretariat. “Our goal is to bring more development to Enugu through effective collaboration with the centre.”
PDP, LP Hit by Internal Crises
Political observers say the defections stem largely from persistent leadership tussles and lack of cohesion within both the PDP and Labour Party structures in Enugu.
Several lawmakers are said to have lost confidence in their party leadership and opted for what they described as a more “stable and strategic” platform.
Insiders within the PDP have described the mass movement as “a warning signal” for the opposition, while Labour Party sources admitted that the defections could weaken their hold in parts of the state.
APC Strengthens Base in South-East
For the ruling APC, the latest defections represent a significant breakthrough in its efforts to gain stronger foothold in the South-East, where it has historically faced stiff resistance.
Party leaders in Enugu have already welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as a “bold and patriotic step.”
“The APC is open to all who share our vision of national development,” one senior party official said. “These lawmakers have joined a team that delivers results.”
Political Implications Ahead of 2027
The mass movement of lawmakers is expected to alter the balance of power in Enugu politics. Analysts believe the defections could pave the way for a more competitive contest in 2027, with the APC now positioning itself as a viable alternative to the PDP and LP in the state.
However, questions remain over whether the defectors will retain their seats, as the opposition parties may challenge the legality of the switch under constitutional provisions governing defections.
What Lies Ahead
The coming months are likely to see intensified political activity across Enugu, as both the PDP and Labour Party attempt to rebuild their structures and prevent further losses.
Also Read: FG to Phase Out Chalkboards in Nigerian Schools by 2027
Meanwhile, the APC is expected to consolidate its new gains, using the momentum to attract more supporters and strengthen its grassroots presence in the South-East.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, Enugu has emerged as one of the most politically volatile states to watch — and the mass defection of its federal lawmakers could signal a major realignment in the region’s political future.
