The lone All Progressives Congress (APC) member in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Akaliro Kelechi Anderson, has officially dumped the party and declared his allegiance to the Labour Party (LP).
The lawmaker, who represents Umuahia North State Constituency, submitted his resignation letter to the APC Chairman of Umuahia North Local Government Area, citing persistent internal crises, factionalism, and a breakdown of leadership structures within the APC in Abia State.
“Since my inauguration, the APC in Abia has never extended an invitation to me, formal or informal, for any meeting or activity, thereby undermining my relevance and mandate,” he wrote in his letter.
Hon. Akaliro, who also chairs the Assembly’s Committee on Public Petitions and Judiciary, was the only APC candidate to win a seat in the House during the 2023 general elections.
The lawmaker criticized the APC’s continued internal wrangling, especially the frequent suspensions and counter-suspensions among party members across wards and local councils, calling it “a sign of irreversible disunity.”
Following what he described as consultations with his constituents and political stakeholders, Hon. Akaliro announced his decision to join the Labour Party, aligning with the administration of Governor Alex Otti, whom he praised for visionary leadership and development-focused governance.
“Today, I’ve seen the light. His Excellency, Dr. Alex Otti, has shown that he came prepared. From education to infrastructure and social services, he’s delivering on all fronts,” Akaliro said while addressing the press.
He added that being in opposition had become difficult under Governor Otti’s administration because there was little left to criticise.
“Even when I think of something to oppose, I find that he’s already doing it. He has made my job as an opposition lawmaker incredibly hard, in a good way.”
With enthusiasm, Akaliro declared his new political identity:
“I’m officially declaring as Honourable Barrister Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, the man with excess grace, representing the good people of Umuahia North State Constituency as a proud member of the Labour Party.”
He also expressed optimism that his defection would strengthen the Labour Party’s influence in Abia State while further isolating the APC.
“My constituents are excited about this move. I believe Governor Otti is taking Abia to its rightful place, and I want to be part of that journey.”
Akaliro’s exit leaves the APC with no representation in the Abia State House of Assembly, marking a significant setback for the party’s political relevance in the state.
His defection is seen as another boost for Governor Otti’s growing political influence and the Labour Party’s increasing dominance in the region.
