…we won’t remain spectators while Oohers shape Nigeria’s future – Rep Nnaji
By Gloria Ikibah
A major political realignment unfolded on Thursday in the House of Representatives as members of the Enugu State Caucus formally announced their defection from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring their decision as a “bold step into the future” aimed at repositioning the state for growth and inclusion. 
The defection was witnessed by the Executive Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, who had earlier dumped the PDP the platform on which he won the seat for the ruling APC, National Chairman of the ruling APC, former Speaker of Enugu State House of Assembly, Executive Director Project, South East Development Commission among others.
Addressing the media shortly after the defection, leader of the Enugu State Caucus, Rep. Nnolim Nnaji, said the lawmakers’ decision was guided by conviction and unity of purpose under the leadership of the state governor, Dr Peter Ndubuisi Mbah.
Rep. Nnaji described the move as a deliberate act of political courage rather than convenience.
He said: “Today, we stand before you filled with joy, conviction and purpose. With your blessing and in line with our collective decision to stand firmly with our visionary Governor, His Excellency, Dr Peter Ndubisi Mba, we, this day, October 30th, announced our defection to the All Progressives Congress.
“This is not just a political move. It is a bold step into a future born out of courage, clarity and our shared determination to reposition Enugu State for greatness.”
He said the caucus could no longer afford to remain “spectators while others shape the destiny of our nation.”
According to him, joining the APC would “connect our constituencies to the heartbeat of national development” and bring “more projects, jobs, better infrastructure and opportunities for our youth and women.”
The caucus leader praised Governor Mbah’s leadership, calling him “a man of courage, foresight and vision.”
He added: “Together with him, we are saying yes to a new chapter of unity, opportunity and growth for Enugu State.”
Hon. Nnaji also called on colleagues across party lines to put the people’s interests above politics.
“Politics should never divide us. It should empower us to serve our people better. As your representatives, we remain your voices, your advocates and your servants in the National Assembly.”
He assured that the caucus would continue to attract development projects to the state.
“Today, we open the gates of a new dawn – a dawn of hope, inclusion and prosperity where all federal constituencies in Enugu will take their rightful place in Nigeria’s story of progress.”
The lawmaker expressed appreciation to the leadership of the APC at all levels (national, zonal, and state) for their support, as well as to notable personalities from Enugu who witnessed the defection, including former ministers, former Speaker of the State Assembly, and other party stalwarts.
Responding to questions from journalists, Rep. Nnaji dismissed concerns that the defection could threaten political balance in the state, insisting that “what is important is good governance”, He therefore called for unity and renewed commitment to service:
He explained, “We are not here to play politics of party. We are here to support the president, our governor, and to align Enugu State with the centre for the sake of development.
“Let us rise together, believe together and build together. The best days of our people are not behind us—they are just beginning.”
Naijablitznews.com reports that earlier in the month of October three members from Enugu State had defected to the ruling APC in persons of Rep. Nnamchi Paul representing Enugu East/Isi Uzo federal constituency, Rep. Chimaobi Atu Sam representing Enugu North/Enugu South federal constituency and Rep. Sunday Umeha representing Ezeagu/Digital federal constituency.
In addition to the number today at plenary the remaining five members officially dumped the opposition PDP to join the ruling APC and they are:
Rep. Martins Oke representing Igbo Etiyi/Uzo Uwani federal constituency
Rep. Anayo Onuegbu representing Aninri/Agwu/Oji River federal constituency
Nnaji Nnoli representing Nkanu East/Njanu West federal constituency
Obeta Mark representing Nsukka/Igboeze South
Dennis Nnamdi Agbo representing Igboeze North/Udenu federal constituency
