Enugu Lawmaker, Gabriel Lebechi dumps Labour Party, defects to PDP

The member representing Isi-Uzo State Constituency in the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Eze Gabriel Lebechi, on Tuesday officially defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing unresolved internal crises and confidence in Governor Peter Mbah’s leadership.

Lebechi made the announcement during plenary, following the reading of his defection letter by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Uche Ugwu. He explained that persistent internal wranglings within the Labour Party made it nearly impossible for him to remain, describing the party as “almost dead.”

“I wish my well-wishers, my supporters, and members of the party who supported me wholeheartedly to emerge as a member of the House of Assembly representing Isi-Uzo the very best,” he said. “As at yesterday and even years back, the Labour Party entered into a problem they could not solve. I made wider consultations with my constituents, held meetings, and explored avenues for resolution but realised it was beyond repair.”

According to the lawmaker, his decision was further influenced by the developmental strides of Governor Peter Mbah, whom he described as transforming Enugu into “London.”

“Our governor once said he did not come for a government as usual but one that is unusual, and he is putting those words into action. In security, healthcare, roads, and agriculture—he is delivering. As someone with a background in Computer Science, I understand the impact of innovation and technology, and I can see the governor’s vision becoming a reality,” Lebechi stated.

While admitting some personal regret about leaving his former party, he emphasised that his loyalty lies with the people of Isi-Uzo who elected him to serve. He noted that his defection to the PDP would allow him to be more effective in lawmaking and supporting ongoing development in the state.

The Speaker confirmed that the lawmaker’s defection was voluntary and wished him well in his new political alignment.