Despite its declining fortunes at the national level, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu State appears to be regaining momentum. However, the influx of defectors into the party has raised fresh concerns among long-standing members who fear a repeat of past political missteps.
At the heart of the growing tension is a pattern that echoes the turbulent lead-up to the 2023 general elections, when former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s open-door leadership style backfired. Known for his tolerance and peace-building approach, Ugwuanyi was widely admired for accommodating both allies and opposition figures. But his refusal to impose candidates or structure party interests ahead of the primaries allowed chaos to brew within the party.
More than 18 aspirants contested for the governorship ticket alone, with many others vying for legislative seats. Lacking endorsement from the governor, frustrated contenders either defected or worked against the party during the polls. As a result, the PDP suffered significant defeats, including Ugwuanyi losing his senatorial bid.
Ugwuanyi’s successor, Governor Peter Mbah, initially distanced himself from politicking to focus on governance. Now, however, he appears to be easing into party affairs ahead of 2027. Several Labour Party (LP) lawmakers and former chieftains have already defected to the PDP, citing Mbah’s leadership and developmental strides as key motivations.
The PDP, once overwhelmed by the LP’s dominance, has since flipped the numbers: it now controls 20 of 23 House of Assembly seats, five of eight federal House seats, and continues to attract defectors, including the LP’s 2023 governorship candidate, Chijioke Edeoga.
While the party hierarchy sees this as a resurgence, loyal members and analysts are cautioning against unchecked reintegration of defectors. Some argue that many returnees were key actors in the PDP’s defeat in 2023, only seeking to realign now to secure their political futures.
PDP chieftain Getrude Eze voiced concern over what she termed opportunistic politics, stating: “They fought the governor tooth and nail, accused him of forgery, questioned the election results, yet they are now singing his praises. What changed? The answer is 2027.”
Political observers warn that the scramble for PDP tickets in 2027 could be fierce. Many of the defectors are first-term officeholders hoping to retain their seats, and the battle for nominations could reignite internal crises if not carefully managed.
Dr. Great Orji, a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University, noted that while Mbah’s decision to initially sideline politics allowed him to focus on governance, the influx of returnees now demands strategic leadership to avert another implosion.
During a recent reception for defectors, PDP State Chairman Dr. Martin Chukwunwike promised a level playing field for all members. But whether this balancing act will sustain party unity remains to be seen as the countdown to 2027 intensifies.
