The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is strategically positioning itself for a total takeover of political power in Nigeria's South-East geopolitical zone, looking ahead to the 2027 general election. A significant development in this push is the impending defection of Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, scheduled for Tuesday next week. This move was highlighted during the inauguration of a seven-member caretaker committee for the APC in Enugu State, where national and state party hierarchies underscored their commitment to expanding the party's influence.

The newly inaugurated caretaker committee for Enugu State is chaired by Dr. Ben Nwoye, with Hon. Eugene Odoh serving as Secretary. Other members include Fidelia Njoeze, Peter Chime, Dr. Oby Ajih, Dr. Chiedozie Nwafor, and Emma Ekeh. During the inauguration, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, emphasized the critical need for unified efforts to bolster the party's presence and strength in the South-East region, which has historically leaned towards opposition parties.

Prof. Yilwatda assured that the party's National Working Committee (NWC) had adhered to due process in dissolving the state's previous working committee. He tasked the new caretaker committee with the crucial responsibilities of fostering party unity and working diligently to secure overwhelming success for the APC in future electoral contests, particularly in 2027. The National Chairman also highlighted the achievements of the 'Renewed Hope Agenda,' stating that three out of six promised cancer centers had been delivered within the health sector, with the remaining three expected within the next two years. Furthermore, he noted that over 6,000 of the 10,000 targeted primary health centers had been revitalized, with the full target anticipated within the same timeframe, affirming the party's commitment to delivering on its promises and keeping the hope of Nigerians alive.

Yilwatda further instructed the caretaker committee to collaborate with the governor to promote the 'Renewed Hope Agenda' at both state and national levels, positioning them as 'foot soldiers' for the agenda. He cited significant improvements in revenue allocation, noting that while 24 states were owing salaries in 2023 and 12 were borrowing to pay, the average monthly FAAC sharing under the 'Renewed Hope Agenda' had increased substantially, from approximately N400 billion to N2.25 trillion. This means what was shared over four to five months previously is now being shared in a single month. He urged the committee and the governor to leverage these financial improvements to unveil projects, enhance social welfare, and provide social protection, thereby creating compelling reasons for the party to win the 2027 elections.

Following the inauguration, Dr. Ben Nwoye, chairman of the caretaker committee, addressed journalists, stating the committee's immediate plan to commence political evangelism to ensure Enugu State and the broader South-East region align with the national ruling party. Nwoye confirmed that Governor Peter Mbah has committed to joining the APC, bringing with him a significant number of officials. He revealed that on Tuesday, October 14, 2024, Governor Mbah is expected to declare for the APC, bringing not only himself but also 260 ward councillors, 24 members of the House of Assembly, members of the National Assembly, and the entire State Executive Council.

Nwoye articulated that this mass defection represents a merger between Governor Peter Mbah's transformative agenda in Enugu State and His Excellency Bola Tinubu's 'Renewed Hope Agenda.' He projected that Enugu State, which has been in opposition for the past decade, would now shift allegiance, influencing the political direction of the entire South-East. He emphasized that the past election's strong opposition showing in Enugu would 'never again' be repeated, expressing confidence that with the support of the new committee and Governor Mbah's leadership, Enugu State's transformation would be harmonized with the national agenda, paving the way for APC dominance in the region.