Big Loss For PDP as Ex-Legal Adviser Defects to APC
- Former PDP National Legal Adviser, Hon. Emmanuel Enoidem, has defected to the APC in Akwa Ibom state
- Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Governor Umo Eno welcomed the move, describing it as a step toward political unity
- Stakeholders pledged to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of efforts to strengthen the APC in the state
Legit.ng's Muslim Muhammad Yusuf is a 2025 Wole Soyinka Award-winning journalist with over 8 years of experience in investigative reporting, human rights, politics, governance and accountability in Nigeria.
The immediate past National Legal Adviser of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barrister Emmanuel Enoidem, has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Akwa Ibom State, dealing a fresh blow to the opposition party in the South-South region.
Enoidem announced his decision following a reconciliation facilitated by Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno with his former political leader, Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Source: UGC
A statement by the Special Assistant on Media and Communication to the President of the Senate, Anietie Ekong, quoted Akpabio as saying that efforts aimed at preventing conflict and fostering harmony were worthwhile and beneficial to the state.
Akpabio also commended Governor Eno for what he described as growing political unity in Akwa Ibom, noting that peace and cooperation among political actors would accelerate development in the state.
Akpabio spoke when the Governor led a high-powered delegation of political leaders to formally notify him of Enoidem’s decision to join the APC.
Receiving the delegation at his residence in Uyo, Akpabio said unity and peace were essential for the progress of the state, stressing that political engagement should go beyond electoral contests.
Enoidem expressed appreciation
Enoidem served for eight years as commissioner during Akpabio’s tenure as Governor of Akwa Ibom and later became National Legal Adviser of the PDP.
He contested against Akpabio in the last senatorial election for the Akwa Ibom North West Senatorial District.
Speaking during a visit by Governor Eno and a high-powered delegation of political leaders to Akpabio’s residence in Uyo, Enoidem expressed appreciation to the governor for intervening to restore political ties between him and Akpabio.
Eno said the delegation was in Uyo to inform Akpabio of Enoidem’s decision to align with the APC, describing the move as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen political cooperation in Akwa Ibom.
He added that stakeholders in the state had resolved to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and work together to promote stability and development.
Source: Facebook
Enoidem described Governor Eno as a unifying figure and expressed appreciation for his role in reconciling him with Akpabio.
He said that despite past political differences, Akpabio remained his leader and affirmed his readiness to work with him.
Enoidem is expected to be formally received into the APC at a rally in Utu Etim Ekpo, Etim Ekpo Local Government Area, on Friday, January 23.
Analyst predicts PDP’s 2027 fate
A political analyst, Mamu Yusuf Bamally, has weighed in on the prospects of the PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections, arguing that the party must carefully decide whether to contest independently or pursue an alliance with the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
Speaking with Legit.ng, Bamally said the internal crises facing the PDP could weaken its chances if the party insists on going into the 2027 elections alone.
According to him, unresolved leadership disputes and factional struggles have continued to undermine the party’s cohesion and electoral appeal.
The analyst suggested that forming an alliance with ADC could offer PDP a strategic advantage by consolidating opposition forces and reducing vote splitting.
He explained that a coalition could create a broader platform capable of challenging the ruling party more effectively.
Bamally said:
“If PDP chooses to remain on its own without resolving its internal problems, it will struggle in 2027. The party is still dealing with deep divisions that could cost it electoral strength.”
“An alliance with ADC may help reposition PDP as part of a stronger opposition front. It could attract wider support and present a more united alternative to the electorate.”
However, Bamally cautioned that any alliance must be based on clear agreements and shared objectives. He warned that without a transparent power-sharing formula and mutual trust, such a coalition could collapse under internal pressure.
“Coalitions only work when there is sincerity and clear understanding. If PDP and ADC fail to agree on leadership and strategy, the alliance may not survive,” he said.
Bamally concluded that PDP’s fate in 2027 would largely depend on how quickly it resolves its internal crises and whether it is willing to embrace strategic partnerships to remain politically relevant.
Former Plateau Reps member Bagos defects to APC
Legit.ng earlier reported that, Former member of the House of Representatives, Dachung Bagos, has formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), after dumping the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He declared his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang over ongoing reforms aimed at addressing insecurity and strengthening the economy.
Bagos announced his defection in a statement issued on Saturday, explaining that his decision was guided by what he described as a reform-driven ideology aligned with the APC’s policy direction at both the federal and state levels.
Mutfwang officially resigns from PDP
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state has resigned his membership of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)
Mutfwang officially conveyed his decision via a letter dated December 29, 2025, and addressed to the PDP ward chairman in Ampang West, Mangu local government area (LGA) of Plateau State.
Governor Mutfwang later joined the ruling APC after dumping the umbrella party ahead of the 2027 elections.
The APC, in a picture post on its X page on Friday, January 2, unveiled the governor as its official member.
Source: Legit.ng
