Two legislators from the Young Progressive Party in the Abia State House of Assembly have switched allegiance to the ruling Labour Party. Iheanacho Nwogu and Fine Ahuama, representing Osisioma North and Osisioma South State Constituencies respectively, cited their desire to align with Governor Alex Otti’s vision for grassroots democracy as their reason for leaving their former party.
They communicated their decision to the Speaker, Emmanuel Emeruwa, via separate letters, explaining that they were expelled from the YPP due to their support for the current administration in the state. Pledging their loyalty to their new party, they later visited Governor Otti at the Government House in Umuahia, accompanied by Labour Party’s House Majority Leader, Uchenna Okoro.
Governor Otti welcomed the defectors, acknowledging their consistent support for his administration regardless of their political affiliation. He emphasized his administration’s commitment to transparent governance and equal opportunities for all members, regardless of when they joined the party. Otti assured the newcomers that they would enjoy the same privileges as existing party members and expressed anticipation for the YPP’s gubernatorial candidate, Chief Enyinnaya Nwafor, to also join the Labour Party.
During the visit, Okoro highlighted the service-oriented leadership style of Governor Otti as the catalyst for the legislators’ defection. The governor, accompanied by key members of his cabinet, reiterated his commitment to serving the people and ensuring their happiness, emphasizing that effective governance hinges on stewardship.
