Big blow for Abia APC as ex-lawmaker, 200 others defect to LP

A former member of the Abia State House of Assembly who represented Ukwa East State Constituency, Chief Paul Taribo, alongside Mrs Theresa Oxford Nwabara and more than 100 of their supporters, has defected to the Labour Party in the state.

The defection took place at an event held in Ikwueke East Ward, where Taribo, until recently a key figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC), announced his decision to join the Labour Party.

Speaking at the gathering, Taribo said his move was inspired by the achievements of Governor Alex Otti and his desire to support the governor’s re-election bid in 2027.

He said he believes the Labour Party provides a better platform to contribute to the continued development of Abia State.

The former APC chieftain pledged his full loyalty and commitment to the Labour Party, assuring members that he is ready to work hard to strengthen the party’s presence and influence in Ikwueke East Ward and across Ukwa East Local Government Area.

Speaking further, Taribo expressed his confidence in Otti’s leadership style, vision, and developmental agenda, as well as that of the Chairman of Ukwa East council, Hon. Chibunna Akara.

He said; “I left my former party ,the APC, to to join the Labour Party, because I m motivated by the visible achievements of Governor Alex Otti and the desire to contribute to his re-election in 2027. I have confidence in the leadership style,vision and developmental agenda of the Governor. I pledge my loyalty to the Labour Party and to deepen its presence in Ikwueke ward and Ukwa East LGA. These are the major factors that informed my decision to align with the Labour Party.”

In his remarks, Chairman of Ukwa East LGA,Hon. Chibunna Akara described the ex lawmaker as a valuable addition to the party, stressing that the Labour Party remains a broad, inclusive platform that welcomes all well-meaning individuals committed to service and development, regardless of their political background.

He stated that the new entrants of a conducive environment within the party and urged party leaders and stakeholders to sustain the momentum by mobilizing credible and like-minded individuals ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He assured that Taribo’s experience, leadership capacity, and political network would enhance the growth and electoral strength of the Labour Party in Ukwa East.

Also speaking, Member representing Ukwa East State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Lewis Obianyi,expressed confidence that with the growing strength and cohesion of the Labour Party in Ukwa East, the r Governor’s reelection is assured.

He added that the Governor’s continued leadership would translate into increased development and improved welfare for the people of Ukwa East.

Obianyi commended the Labour Party leadership in the area for maintaining an open door policy and thanked the chairman , for his proactive efforts in recruiting high value individuals into the party and for working in synergy with party leaders to consolidate the party at the grassroots.

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