In a significant shake-up within Ukwa political landscape, two prominent chieftains of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have officially announced their defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), bringing along a formidable following of over 2,000 supporters. The decision, inspired by a growing sense of disillusionment, was attributed to escalating crises and pervasive disunity within the PDP.
During the programme, which took place on the 8th of February 2025 at Obehie Asa, Elder Barr. Henry Chilaka, a two time Sole Administrator, Abia State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ASOPADEC), one time board member, ASOPADEC, and a PDP National delegate, expressed deep concern over the issues of internal divisions, lack of cohesion, and diminishing morale among members within the PDP, adding that the party had strayed from its foundational principles of unity and effective governance.
Elder. Barr. Chilaka further stated that the PDP had lost sight of its core mission to foster national unity and progress. “As leaders, we have a responsibility to our followers and to our communities. We can no longer afford to be part of a party that is more focused on internal battles than addressing the pressing needs of our constituents,”, he said
Hon. Chukwudi Ekeke, the former Leader Ukwa West Legislative Council, former Secretary PDP Ukwa West Local Government, and the current PDP Ukwa West Local Government Vice Chairman lamented, “The rift within our party has become insurmountable. Our commitment to service and development has been overshadowed by infighting and factionalism. This is not the environment in which we can best serve our people.”
The shift towards the APC was framed as a strategic decision aimed at aligning with a party that, according to the chieftains, offers a more united front and a clearer vision for governance. “We believe that the APC is better positioned to address the myriad challenges facing our nation,” Elder Chilaka remarked, noting the APC’s ongoing initiatives geared towards economic development and social cohesion.
The influx of over 2,000 supporters signifies not just a loss for the PDP but also a substantial boost for the APC, which has been keen on consolidating power in the run-up to the next elections.
This event was graced by Hon. Chief Chris Nkwonta, the House of Rep Member for Ukwa Federal Constituency in the 10th Assembly, and the Committee Chairman, South East Development Commission (SEDC), Chief Dr. Eruba Dimgba, NDDC Commissioner for Abia State, Comrade Uju Nwarie, the APC Ukwa West Local Government Party Chairman, and the host of other stakeholders and party faithfuls.
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