Akokwa: Mr. Ikenga Ugochinyere, the lawmaker representing Ideato North and South Federal Constituency of Imo, on Wednesday, formally announced his departure from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Action Peoples Party (APP). Ugochinyere addressed a large gathering of supporters at a rally in Akokwa, Ideato South LGA, where he cited ‘irreconcilable differences’ within the national leadership of his former party as the reason for his defection.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ugochinyere expressed that his issues with the PDP began when he was disqualified from the primary election and the party later sought a court order to declare his seat vacant. He alleged that the PDP did not support him during what he described as ‘periods of intense political hostility and physical attacks on his property,’ stating that his party did not issue any statement during those times.
He claimed to have survived assassination attempts and faced 28 ‘trump-up charges’ aimed at derailing his political career. Ugochinyere lamented that despite providing evidence to security agencies regarding the January 13, 2023, attack and destruction of his property, no action was taken against the perpetrators. He emphasized facing both internal and external adversaries.
Ugochinyere pledged to seek international intervention concerning alleged atrocities and human rights abuses in the state, criticizing the PDP for not heeding warnings about internal threats, which led to his move to what he called a ‘stable platform.’ He praised the APP as a party that rewards hard work and defends the sanctity of the electoral process.
Additionally, Ugochinyere issued a warning to the FCT Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, to cease disrespecting the President-General of Ohaneze Ndigbo, labeling it a ‘red line’ and urging President Bola Tinubu to maintain political decorum.
Meanwhile, Mr. Chima Amadi, the APP governorship aspirant in the state, commended Ugochinyere’s bravery at the rally, portraying it as a stand against ‘political oppression and tyranny.’ Amadi encouraged residents to engage in continuous voter registration to help the APP reclaim the state from the ruling government.
In a show of solidarity, Mr. Rufus Omeire, a member of the PDP Board of Trustees, attended the rally to support Ikenga. Omeire called for opposition political parties to unite against the ruling All Progressives Congress in the state.