ENUGU, Nigeria – Six members elected initially under the Labour Party, LP, banner have transitioned to the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.
The lawmakers, who had previously aimed to announce their defection at an event last Sunday, officially declared their change of allegiance during the plenary session on Thursday, March 28, 2024.
The formal announcement came through a letter presented to the Speaker, Hon. Uche Ugwu, identifying the defecting members as Mr. Ejike Nwa Nsukka (Igbo-Eze North 1), Mr. Johnson Ugwu (Enugu North), Ms. Princess Ugwu (Enugu South Rural), Mr. Pius Onyeka Ezugwu (Nsukka West), Mr. Williams T. Amuka (Igbo-Etiti East), and Mr. Osita Eze (Oji River).
In their letter, the lawmakers articulated their reasons for leaving the LP, pointing to what they described as “irreconcilable division” and “incessant crisis” within the party at both national and state levels.
They expressed disappointment over the party’s descent into “perpetual discord” and legal battles among factions, which they argue has severely impaired its ability to serve the public effectively.
Highlighting specific internal conflicts, such as the rifts between the Abure and Apapa factions, along with issues involving the national treasurer, the legislators underscored the extent of the division that influenced their decision to defect.
The departure of these lawmakers from the LP to the PDP in Enugu marks a pivotal moment that reflects broader challenges faced by the Labour Party, especially in maintaining unity and direction amid growing political ambitions and ideological differences.
This move also indicates a potential shift in the political landscape of Enugu State, as the PDP strengthens its position within the State Assembly.
