A significant political realignment has occurred in Abia State as the member representing Ukwa East State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Lewis Obianyi, officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Labour Party (LP).
Hon. Obianyi attributed his decision solely to the governance approach of Governor Alex Otti, describing it as inclusive, impactful, and backed by verifiable achievements across the state. According to him, the Governor’s performance has redefined leadership in Abia and inspired confidence among stakeholders seeking genuine development.
The lawmaker was not alone in the move. He led a broad coalition of political leaders and influencers from Ukwa East Local Government Area, cutting across different political parties, into the Labour Party.
Among those who declared for the LP are Hon. Paul Taribo, Chief Bright Benson, Lady Chinedu Brown, and several other notable figures from Ndoki land.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to Governor Alex Otti at the Government House on Saturday, Hon. Obianyi recalled that he had earlier informed the Governor of his intention to join the Labour Party around September of the previous year. He expressed appreciation for the warm reception he received and explained that the visit was in fulfillment of an earlier agreement to formally present the decampees before their official reception in Ukwa East.
He emphasized that the Governor’s visible projects and sustainable infrastructure were the major attractions, noting that Abians are now witnessing development that goes beyond promises. Hon. Obianyi pledged the total support of himself and the entire delegation to the Otti-led administration, stressing that their interest lies in good governance rather than party labels.
In his response, Governor Alex Otti congratulated Hon. Obianyi and the Ukwa East stakeholders on their decision and assured them that a formal date would soon be fixed for their official reception into the Labour Party in Ukwa East. He reiterated that his political focus remains the welfare, happiness, and progress of the people of Abia State.
The Governor also announced that the long-awaited general hospital approved for Ukwa East would be delivered within the year. He revealed that construction would commence shortly following the donation of a suitable parcel of land by an Ndoki indigene.
According to him, the contractor has been mandated to deliver a modern, state-of-the-art general hospital before the end of the year.
Governor Otti further used the occasion to appreciate the delegation for the gift of Akwete cloth, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to promoting and commercializing the indigenous fabric.
He disclosed that the promotion of Akwete cloth has already gained international attention through initiatives led by the First Lady, with support from notable Nigerians, and assured Ndoki people of government backing to expand its market reach.
Earlier, the Mayor of Ukwa East Local Government Area, Hon. Chibunna Akara, formally introduced the defectors, noting that they comprised leaders and stakeholders from various opposition parties who had now embraced the Labour Party.
He added that they were awaiting the Governor’s approval for the official reception in Ukwa East.
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Other prominent stakeholders who joined the Labour Party include former Deputy Majority Leader of the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Paul Taribo; former commissioner and women leader Lady Chinedu Brown; Prof. Kamalu of the University of Port Harcourt; retired Superintendent of Police Barr. Ben Ogbonna; Dr. Felix Idah Waboso of the Ijaw National Congress, Ndoki Clan; and several women, youth, and community leaders from across Ukwa East.
The Honourable Commissioner for Information and son of Ndoki, Prince Okey Kanu, was also present during the visit.