Ebonyi State PDP Lawmaker Joins APC, Citing Party Crisis

In a significant political move, Hon. Victor Chidi Nwoke, representing Abakaliki North Constituency under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) on Monday. His decision to switch parties comes amidst lingering and irreconcilable crises within the PDP, both locally and nationally.

Nwoke made his announcement during the inauguration of the local Government Committee of BERWO, the Pet Project of the wife of the Governor, where he expressed his disillusionment with the state of affairs in the PDP. Citing internal strife and leadership disputes, particularly between prominent party figures such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike, Nwoke highlighted the disarray plaguing the party.

According to Nwoke, the ongoing leadership struggle within the PDP has resulted in a loss of confidence among members and has created deep divisions within the party ranks. He specifically pointed to failed attempts to challenge the National Chairman, who is perceived to be aligned with the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), exacerbating tensions within the party.

In contrast, Nwoke praised the leadership prowess of Ebonyi State Governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, applauding his commitment to the People’s Charter of Needs. Nwoke cited Governor Nwifuru as a symbol of effective governance and expressed his admiration for the Governor’s leadership style, which he believes is in alignment with the aspirations of the people of Ebonyi State.

Accompanying Nwoke in his defection were prominent supporters, including the Labour Party Chairman for Abakaliki LGA, Mr. Innocent Oriji, and former leader of the Abakaliki legislative council, Hon. Emmanuel Nwandegu, along with thousands of their supporters.

In response to the defection, Chief Stanley Okoro Emegha, the state chairman of the APC, extended a warm welcome to Nwoke and his supporters, assuring them of a fair and inclusive environment within the party. Additionally, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, the wife of the Governor of Ebonyi State, offered her support and pledged total inclusiveness for Nwoke and his followers on behalf of the Governor.

The defection of Hon. Victor Chidi Nwoke underscores the deep-seated challenges facing the PDP in Ebonyi State and reflects the shifting political landscape ahead of future elections. As the APC gains momentum with new additions to its ranks, the fallout within the PDP may have far-reaching implications for the political landscape of Ebonyi State.