The Progressive Group, a caucus within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, has declared that it would gladly welcome Governor Peter Mbah of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the APC whenever he chooses to join.

Speaking at the group’s stakeholders’ meeting held at Universal Hotel, Independence Layout, Enugu, over the weekend, former APC state chairman Dr. Ben Nwoye dismissed claims that suspended state chairman Ugo Agbala or the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji, could block Mbah’s entry into the party.

“We are aware of the speculation that Governor Mbah may join the APC, and contrary to rumours, neither Agbala nor Nnaji can stop him. Agbala has been suspended by his ward, and a court order has barred him and nine others from parading themselves as chairman. The minister is equally not in a position to speak for the APC; he’s just a member of the Federal Executive Council,” Nwoye said.

He explained that the Progressive Group comprises APC members in Enugu, some apolitical individuals, and progressive-minded members of other political parties committed to the development of the state and the country.

Nwoye recalled that President Bola Tinubu, during his visit to Enugu on February 4, urged political leaders to support Mbah regardless of party affiliation.

“One of the motions we passed was to receive Governor Mbah into the APC if he decides to join and to support his re-election bid in 2027, in line with the President’s directive,” he added.

The former APC chairman praised President Tinubu for signing into law the establishment of a Federal University of Agriculture in Enugu State and for appointing an indigene as Chief of Naval Staff.

“The President has made impactful use of subsidy savings in Enugu State. He recently approved the Federal University of Agriculture for the state and earlier appointed an Enugu son as Chief of Naval Staff. Enugu State will reciprocate by supporting his re-election in 2027,” Nwoye stated.

Nwoye also commended Governor Mbah for his quality leadership and inclusive governance, urging him to continue delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of the state.