In a major political shake-up in Enugu State, the entire Labour Party (LP) structure in Enugu East Local Government Area has officially collapsed into the All Progressives Congress (APC), following the recent defection of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling party.
At the forefront of this mass defection is the Chairman of Umuchigbo Iji Nike and LP’s Enugu East LGA leader, Chief Afam Joseph Ogbene, popularly known as Akirika Chioku I Na Nike.
The announcement was made during a well-attended rally in Umuchigbo Iji Nike, where Ogbene led his supporters in formally declaring their switch to the APC.
“When the news of our governor’s move to the APC broke, I was overjoyed,” Chief Ogbene stated.
“Governor Mbah has demonstrated uncommon and unprecedented development in the state. I decided it was time to follow his lead and contribute my part to moving Enugu forward.”
Ogbene noted that alongside him, a large number of his followers and political allies had resolved to join the APC, saying they believe in the governor’s vision and developmental agenda.
The defection was described as a watershed moment by Pastor Engr. Beloved-Dan Anike, the Executive Chairman of Enugu East LGA, who praised the massive turnout at the rally.
“Within just 48 hours of Governor Mbah’s defection to APC, Enugu East is hosting what can only be called the total collapse of the Labour Party in the area,” Anike declared.
“This is historic.”
He emphasized Chief Ogbene’s strong grassroots influence and affirmed that the new entrants would be fully integrated into the APC’s political structure at the local level.
“With Chief Ogbene on board, our work towards 2027 becomes easier. We’re ready to work together to deliver the governor in the next elections,” he added.
Representing Governor Mbah at the event, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, Commissioner for Local Government, Rural Development and Chieftaincy Affairs, lauded the defection as a bold step in the right direction.
“It’s time for Ndi Igbo to align with mainstream politics,” Ogbodo said.
“Joining APC means being part of the national conversation. Governor Mbah understands this, and he is leading with vision.”
He conveyed the governor’s appreciation to the people of Umuchigbo and assured them of continued inclusion and support from the administration.
