By Sheddy Ozoene
The second anniversary of Governor Peter Mbah’s administration in Enugu State has brought a new dimension to the political history of the state, with signs that the long-entrenched culture of godfatherism may be on the decline. The celebrations were unique, particularly because they were attended by his predecessor, former Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi — the first time such cordiality has been recorded in the Fourth Republic between a sitting governor and his predecessor.
Governor Mbah had earlier demonstrated this bond on Ugwuanyi’s 61st birthday in March 2025 when he led state officials to celebrate with him, describing Ugwuanyi as a leader with “statesmanly dispositions.” This relationship stands out in sharp contrast to the bitter history of clashes between past governors and their political godfathers in Enugu State.
Since 1999, no governor of the state has enjoyed a cordial relationship with his predecessor lasting more than two years. Chimaroke Nnamani quickly fell out with Jim Nwobodo after his 1999 election, dismantling his political structure. Sullivan Chime, who succeeded Nnamani in 2007, also broke ties with his political benefactor, obliterating the Ebeano structure and replacing it with his own. Chime himself later fell out with his successor, Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi, less than two years after leaving office, leading to his defection from the PDP to the APC.
These recurring crises had their roots in the bitter rivalries of Enugu’s early politics, particularly between Chief Jim Nwobodo and Chief Christian Onoh, whose battles for power in the old Anambra State and later in the newly created Enugu State laid the foundation for the state’s tradition of political godfatherism.
Against this backdrop, the sustained cordiality between Mbah and Ugwuanyi appears unprecedented. Analysts suggest it may be due to Ugwuanyi’s apparent lack of interest in playing the role of a meddlesome godfather, Mbah’s loyalty as a successor, or a political agreement that limited room for conflict.
Many observers argue that Governor Mbah’s achievements in his first two years may have been boosted by the absence of such distractions, marking a refreshing break from Enugu’s history of political strife.
Whether this signals the end of godfatherism in Enugu remains to be seen, but for now, residents are welcoming the peace, unity, and stability it brings to the state’s governance.
