PDP Lawmakers Lead Massive Defection To Labour Party In Abia

Member Representing Isialangwa South State Constituency, Hon. Rowland Chinwendu Dennis, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling Labour Party (LP), bringing along hundreds of stakeholders, ward chairmen, and party loyalists.

The grand reception ceremony, held on Friday at the Group Primary School, Umuoba Isialangwa South LGA, was attended by Governor Alex Otti, top government officials, traditional rulers, and party stakeholders.

The event marked a significant boost for the Labour Party in the state, further consolidating its strength ahead of future elections.

Governor Otti, while welcoming Hon. Dennis and his supporters reiterated the Labour Party’s commitment to inclusivity and good governance. He emphasized that all new members would enjoy equal opportunities in the party.

“In the Labour Party, we do not discriminate. If you’re joining today, you will be given the same status as those who have been with us for a long time. We welcome you wholeheartedly,” the Governor stated.

He also reassured the defectors of full integration, using his political journey as an example. “I joined the Labour Party in 2022, got the ticket to contest the governorship election, and today, I am Governor. If there was discrimination, I wouldn’t be here,” he said.

Hon. Dennis, while speaking on his decision to leave PDP, cited the developmental strides of Governor Otti as a key motivation.

He highlighted the Governor’s efforts in road construction across all 17 LGAs, improvements in the healthcare sector, and prompt payment of salaries and pensions on the 28th of every month.

“The Governor is fixing roads in all LGAs, improving healthcare, and ensuring prompt payment of pensioners and workers. I am impressed, and that is why I am here with my people,” he said.

Hon. Dennis further assured Governor Otti of strong grassroots support from Isialangwa South, stating that with key stakeholders now in LP, the LGA is fully committed to the party’s future success.

Other political leaders present, including Senator Darlington Nwokocha and Hon. Ginger Onwusoibe, the Member Representing Isialangwa North and South Federal Constituency, commended Governor Otti for welcoming opposition members into the ruling party.

They reaffirmed that politics allows free entry and exit and urged the people to continue supporting the Labour Party.

The highlight of the event was the presentation of the Labour Party flag to Hon. Dennis and his supporters by Mr Smart Ogbonna, the LP Chairman of Isialangwa South, officially sealing their defection.

Governor Otti used the occasion to dismiss speculations that Hon. Dennis’ defection was linked to the 2027 elections.

He reaffirmed his administration’s focus on delivering good governance rather than political distractions.

“I cannot be blackmailed with the 2027 elections. I am focused on serving the people who gave me their mandate. When the time comes, they have the power to renew it if they so wish,” he stated.