“We Would Have Backed Tinubu in Enugu, But…” — PDP Chieftain Drops 2027 Re-election Warning

Reactions continue to mount across Enugu State following a spate of alleged political violence ahead of the 2027 general elections. Opposition platforms, including the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have strongly condemned recent violent disruptions recorded in Obuofia, Akpugo, and neighboring communities.

​Addressing the situation in a press statement, PDP chieftain Chief Basil Ani warned that the escalating hostility could severely undermine President Bola Tinubu’s electoral standing in the state come 2027.

​Ani asserted that Enugu electorate may deliver a massive protest vote against President Tinubu’s re-election bid if the Federal Government is seen as giving cover to or shielding the Governor Peter Mbah-led administration from accountability over political intimidation.

​To substantiate his claims, the PDP chieftain highlighted several specific instances of violent interference targeted at party activities in Nkanu West Local Government Area:

​August 16: Alleged physical attacks targeting PDP members during a meeting at Akpugo Ward 3.

​August 29: Violent disruption of a scheduled PDP gathering at Obe Ward.

​September 12: Two distinct violent assaults carried out during separate PDP ward meetings across the state.

​Ani pointed out that while blame for the political unrest was initially directed solely at Governor Mbah's administration, the public outcry has expanded. Traditional rulers, religious figures, and opposition leaders are now openly questioning the Presidency's role and demanding federal neutrality.

​“The allegations are grave and raise a much larger question: Can citizens freely participate in political activities in Enugu State without fear of violence or intimidation?” Ani stated, demanding that the Federal Government maintain strict impartiality between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition political parties.

​The political dynamics in Enugu State shifted significantly after Governor Peter Mbah defected from the PDP to the APC. Following Mbah's departure, former Minister of Innovation, Science, and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, dumped the APC for the PDP and subsequently secured the PDP governorship ticket to challenge the ruling party in the 2027 contest.