Enugu PDP Defection Storm: Prof. Jehu Nnaji Defies Political Wave, Vows to Stand Firm With PDP No Matter the Cost

  

As the wave of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) continues to sweep through Enugu State, one of the state’s most respected intellectuals and political figures, Prof. Jehu Onyekwere Nnaji, PhD, has taken a bold and rare stand, declaring his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

In an exclusive interview granted on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, Prof. Nnaji reaffirmed his faith in the PDP, describing the party as “a foundation built on ideals, integrity, and service to the people.” He said his faith remains unshaken, emphasizing that his political philosophy is guided by conviction, not convenience.

 “I have no reason to defect. We cannot be moving from party to party at every given offer,” Prof. Nnaji stated firmly. “Politics should be about ideology, character, and principles, not about chasing personal gains or convenience. My belief in the PDP remains strong because I see it as the platform that still represents the true spirit of democratic governance in Enugu State and beyond."

The internationally renowned scholar and former Enugu State PDP governorship aspirant explained that while he respects the decisions of others to switch political allegiance, his commitment to the PDP is anchored on consistency, loyalty, and his conviction that political stability is key to sustainable development.

 “It is not in my nature to be swayed by political tides,” he said. “When one’s loyalty is tested, that is when true leadership is proven. I believe that standing firm, even when the wind blows strongest, is what defines a man of principle.”

Prof. Nnaji, who hails from Amurri in Nkanu West Local Government Area, is a Distinguished Professor of International Law and Global Politics at the University of Kansas Law School, USA, and a Judge at the International Criminal Court (ICC), The Hague, Netherlands. He also serves as a senior faculty member at the International Law, Politics, and Integration Department of the Globe Visions Network in Italy.

Widely celebrated for his intellectual depth and humility, Prof. Nnaji’s political journey has been marked by integrity and service. In 2023, he contested the Enugu State governorship election under the PDP but graciously stepped down for Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, describing the move then as “an act of solidarity and a commitment to the collective vision for Enugu’s development.”

His academic and political pedigree is as impressive as it is inspiring. A Merit Award Winner from the University of Naples II, Italy, Prof. Nnaji has authored numerous acclaimed works, including International Law and Global Politics, Non-EU States’ Invasion of Europe, and A Variegated Insight on Stalinism and De-Stalinization. He is also a member of the American Society of International Law and the American Political Science Association, reflecting his influence on global policy and governance discourse.

In his Tuesday interview, Prof. Nnaji reaffirmed his admiration for Governor Peter Mbah’s developmental strides, praising him for “redefining governance with precision, accountability, and visionary execution.” However, he stressed that his loyalty to the Governor’s leadership does not translate to political migration but to shared principles of governance and service.

 “Governor Mbah is doing exceptionally well, and I remain proud of his achievements,” he said. “But as for me, my root is in the PDP. That is where my political identity is defined, and I will continue to contribute my quota to ensure that the party remains strong and relevant.”

He further called on political leaders across Enugu State to prioritize stability, unity, and development over political expediency, warning that frequent defections weaken institutional trust and dilute the very foundation of party democracy.

“Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive on political mobility without ideology,” he remarked. “We must build a generation of leaders who stand for something, not those who fall for everything.”

Prof. Jehu Nnaji’s courageous declaration has been hailed by political observers as a rare display of ideological strength and integrity at a time when many political figures are shifting loyalties. His stance, they say, serves as a reminder that politics remains most honorable when guided by principles rather than pressure.

While the political landscape of Enugu continues to evolve, Prof. Jehu Onyekwere Nnaji’s steadfastness stands out as a  testament to the enduring value of loyalty, intellect, and character in Nigerian politics.