Former Lawmaker, over 100 supporters dump APC for LP in Abia

A former member of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chief Paul Taribo, alongside Mrs Theresa Oxford Nwabara and over 100 supporters, has defected from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Labour Party (LP) in Abia State.

The defection took place at a well-attended event held at Ikwueke East Ward in Ukwa East Local Government Area.

Speaking at the event, Taribo, who represented Ukwa East State Constituency in the state assembly and was until recently a prominent APC chieftain, said his decision to join the Labour Party was driven by the visible achievements of Governor Alex Otti and his determination to contribute to the governor’s re-election in 2027.

He pledged total loyalty to the Labour Party, assuring members of his readiness to work towards strengthening the party’s structure and influence in Ikwueke East Ward and across Ukwa East LGA.

“I left my former party, the APC, to join the Labour Party because I am motivated by the visible achievements of Governor Alex Otti and my desire to contribute to his re-election in 2027,” Taribo said.

“I have confidence in the leadership style, vision, and developmental agenda of the governor. I hereby pledge my loyalty to the Labour Party and my commitment to deepening its presence in Ikwueke East Ward and Ukwa East Local Government Area.”

Also speaking, the Chairman of Ukwa East Local Government Area, Hon. Chibunna Akara, described Taribo as a valuable addition to the Labour Party, stressing that the party remains an inclusive and progressive platform open to individuals committed to service and development, irrespective of their political background.

Akara assured the new entrants of a conducive environment within the party and urged party leaders and stakeholders to sustain the momentum by mobilising credible and like-minded individuals ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He noted that Taribo’s political experience, leadership capacity, and grassroots network would significantly enhance the growth and electoral strength of the Labour Party in Ukwa East.

In his remarks, the member representing Ukwa East State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Lewis Obianyi, expressed confidence that the growing cohesion and strength of the Labour Party in the area would guarantee Governor Otti’s re-election.

Obianyi added that the governor’s continued leadership would translate into increased development and improved welfare for the people of Ukwa East.

He commended the Labour Party leadership in the local government for maintaining an open-door policy and praised the council chairman for his proactive efforts in attracting high-value political figures and working in synergy with party leaders to consolidate the party at the grassroots.