Ohafia North lawmaker Mandela Obasi defects from PDP to Labour Party, citing Governor Alex Otti’s development projects and leadership crisis in PDP.
A member of the Abia State House of Assembly representing Ohafia North State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Mandela Obasi, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Labour Party (LP), citing political developments and governance achievements in the state.
Obasi announced his defection on Wednesday while addressing journalists at the country home of Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, located in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area. The announcement followed a private meeting between the lawmaker and the governor.
The meeting was attended by several political figures and supporters, including the Deputy Governor, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, former Commissioner for Transport Chief Kingsley Imaga, former Ohafia Local Government Chairman Princess Grace Agbara, and Chief Ndukwe Orji Agu (ABROMA), among others.
Speaking after the meeting, the three-term legislator explained that his decision to join the Labour Party was largely influenced by what he described as the visible development projects being carried out across Abia State under Governor Otti’s administration.
According to Obasi, the governor’s infrastructural projects have strengthened the confidence of political leaders and made it easier for them to engage with their constituents. He noted that development efforts such as the ongoing Uzuakoli–Akara–Ohafia road project demonstrate the government’s commitment to improving the lives of residents.
He emphasized that the impact of these projects is evident in communities, adding that residents frequently acknowledge the governor’s role in improving road networks and other infrastructure.
Obasi also cited internal issues within the Peoples Democratic Party as another reason for his departure. He stated that the party has been struggling with leadership challenges and divisions among its members.
According to him, many PDP members are already aligning themselves with other political platforms, including the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the All Progressives Congress (APC). He added that within the Abia State House of Assembly, only a few members still remain firmly in the PDP.
The lawmaker further revealed that several of his supporters and political associates from Ohafia North and other areas are preparing to join the Labour Party alongside him. He noted that the date for their official defection would be announced soon.
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Expressing confidence in his political influence, Obasi said his strong support base in Ohafia remains intact, stressing that his experience as a three-term lawmaker reflects the trust his constituents have in his leadership.
His defection is expected to further strengthen the Labour Party’s growing presence in Abia State politics.