A Political Earthquake in Abia State: Mass Defections Rock PDP and APC as Labour Party Gains Momentum
The political landscape of Abia State has experienced a seismic shift with the mass defection of over 200 members from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Labour Party (LP). This exodus, centered in Ohafia Local Government Area, signifies a potential realignment of political forces in the state and underscores the growing influence of the LP under Governor Alex Otti. Prominent figures among the defectors include former PDP stakeholders like Kalu Paul, a former Special Assistant on Grassroots Mobilization; Ngozi Obuba, the Ohafia PDP Woman Leader; Oguelu Eke Anya, former Director of Public Affairs; and Ukoha Anya Ojo, a former House of Assembly aspirant. Their decision to join the LP, along with hundreds of their supporters, was formally recognized during a stakeholders’ meeting in Amaekpu Ohafia, where they were received by LP State Chairman Emmanuel Otti and Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu.
Deputy Governor Emetu welcomed the defectors, praising their "bold and rightful political decision." He expressed confidence that their move would pave the way for a smoother victory for the LP in the 2027 elections, contrasting it with the hard-fought battle of 2023. Emetu attributed this optimism to the "transformational work" of Governor Otti, which he believes has significantly boosted the party’s prospects across the state. The deputy governor assured the newcomers that their decision would be communicated to Governor Otti and emphasized the LP’s commitment to the welfare and progress of all its members. This welcoming stance reinforces the party’s image as an inclusive and forward-looking political force.
The acting state chairman of the LP, Emmanuel Otti, echoed the deputy governor’s sentiments, highlighting the LP’s growing appeal. He attributed this to the good governance and infrastructure development spearheaded by Governor Otti. Otti went so far as to suggest that the LP might face virtually no opposition in 2027, given the governor’s performance and its ability to attract members from rival parties. This bold statement reflects the LP’s burgeoning confidence and its perception of a weakening opposition.
Speaking on behalf of the defectors, former PDP Woman Leader Ngozi Obuba cited Governor Otti’s "good work" as the primary motivation for their decision to join the LP. Another prominent defector, Sunday Anya Ojo, known as "School Boy," offered a more blunt assessment, declaring the PDP "dead and gone" in Abia State. Anya Ojo, a grassroots politician and former House of Assembly aspirant, attributed his departure to the PDP’s declining influence. His strong words paint a stark picture of the perceived state of the PDP and his belief that the LP represents the future of politics in Abia State.
The mass defection underscores the perceived momentum shift in Abia State politics. The LP, energized by Governor Otti’s administration, is attracting members disillusioned with the established parties. The PDP, once dominant, is now facing a significant challenge to its authority. This dynamic sets the stage for a potentially dramatic political contest in the coming years.
The PDP’s response to the defections has been somewhat muted. State Chairman Abraham Amah acknowledged the reports, stating that he learned of them through social media. He downplayed the significance of the departures, suggesting that the defectors were individuals who had already distanced themselves from the PDP and worked against the party during the 2023 elections. Amah’s comments suggest an attempt to minimize the impact of the defections and portray them as the departure of individuals with little remaining connection to the PDP. However, the sheer number of defectors and the prominence of some figures involved indicate a deeper issue for the party to address. This political realignment in Abia State will undoubtedly be a key storyline to watch as the 2027 elections approach.
