Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah has denied reports suggesting he plans to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), saying he remains firmly committed to the party.
Speaking during an interactive session with members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) on Saturday in Enugu, the governor addressed recent speculation about his political future.
“I am still in the PDP. As you can see, the flag behind me is that of the PDP,” he said.
Governor Mbah acknowledged that the party is facing internal challenges but maintained that such issues are not exclusive to the PDP, adding that all political parties in Nigeria face similar struggles.
Despite these difficulties, he expressed confidence that the party would eventually overcome its internal divisions.
On the topic of independent candidacy, Mbah noted that Nigeria’s current constitution does not allow individuals to run for office without political party sponsorship.
“Our constitution does not provide for independent candidates,” he said. “You still have to do politics. You can’t completely shield yourself from it.”
Mbah emphasized that his administration remains focused on governance and service delivery in Enugu State.
“It is clear from the people of Enugu State that we are here to serve them. At the end of the day, they will decide whether to renew our mandate or not,” he said.
The governor also revealed that Chijioke Edeoga, his main opponent in the 2023 governorship race, has returned to the PDP and is now working with his administration.
“We’re working closely together now, which has brought political peace to the state,” Mbah said. “We’re not wasting resources on political fights. We’re collaborating to build our state.”
His comments came just a day after former Senate President Bukola Saraki, who heads the PDP’s reconciliation and convention committee, addressed recent defections from the party. Saraki said while some elite members may have left, the party’s grassroots support remains strong nationwide.