Former Labour Party (LP) gubernatorial candidate in Enugu State, Barrister Chijioke Edeoga, has officially rejoined the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His return comes after weeks of speculation and meetings with political stakeholders.
Edeoga initially left the PDP after the party’s primary election and joined the LP, where he contested against the current governor, Peter Mbah. However, his return to the PDP was anticipated after the party’s state chairman, Hon. Martin Chukwunweike, visited him at his residence in Enugu, urging him to reunite with his political family.
Before making his decision, Edeoga also received offers from the All Progressives Congress (APC), which attempted to bring him into their fold. However, he consulted with stakeholders in his Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, who expressed a preference for his return to the PDP.
On Monday, Edeoga officially arrived at the PDP secretariat in Enugu, describing his decision as a “homecoming.” Addressing party members, he expressed gratitude to Governor Peter Mbah and PDP leaders at various levels for facilitating his return.
“I want to say that I’m happy to be here. I want to start by thanking in a very special way, the governor of Enugu State. I appreciate that what has happened today cannot begin to be conceived without his political involvement,” Edeoga said.
He further noted that his return marks a shift in Enugu State’s political landscape, where collaboration takes precedence over division.
Dr. Chukwunweike, the PDP state chairman, described Edeoga’s return as a significant move for party unity, stating that Governor Mbah’s goal has always been to strengthen the PDP in Enugu.
“Our number one term of reference upon our election as the state’s party leadership is to reunite the party. His Excellency said that we must work to bring everybody together. So, today is a major step in that direction,” Chukwunweike stated.
The Chairman of Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, Barrister Obiora Obeagu, welcomed Edeoga’s return, describing it as a positive step for the party and an endorsement of Governor Mbah’s leadership.
“It is a welcome development. For me, I will say it is long expected, considering the conciliatory dispositions of our capable governor,” Obeagu noted.
He pointed out that the governor has continued to implement major projects in Isi-Uzo, despite the area being a stronghold of the opposition during the last election.
He cited various initiatives, including smart schools, healthcare centers, and road construction projects aimed at improving infrastructure and security in the region.
According to Obeagu, these developmental efforts played a key role in Edeoga’s decision to return to the PDP. He believes that this move will help unify political forces in the state, ensuring continued progress under Governor Mbah’s administration.
