ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Labour Party has recorded a major boost in Abia State following the defection of a former member of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chief Paul Taribo, and over 200 supporters from the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Taribo, who represented Ukwa East State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, defected alongside Mrs. Theresa Oxford Nwabara and their supporters at an event held at Ikwueke East Ward in Ukwa East Local Government Area.
Speaking at the event, Taribo, a former chieftain of the APC, said his decision to join the Labour Party was motivated by the achievements of Governor Alex Otti and his desire to contribute to the governor’s re-election in the 2027 general elections.
The former lawmaker pledged his loyalty and commitment to the Labour Party, assuring members of his readiness to work towards deepening the party’s presence and influence in Ikwueke East Ward and across Ukwa East Council Area.
“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 the 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 pledge my loyalty to the Labour Party and will work to deepen its presence in Ikwueke Ward and Ukwa East LGA. These are the major factors that informed my decision to align with the Labour Party.”
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He also expressed confidence in the leadership of governor Otti and the Chairman of Ukwa East Local Government Area, Hon. Chibunna Akara, describing their governance style as development-driven.
In his remarks, Chairman of Ukwa East LGA, Hon. Chibunna Akara, described Taribo’s defection as a valuable addition to the party, stressing that the Labour Party remains an inclusive platform open to all well-meaning individuals committed to service and development, irrespective of political background.
Akara urged party leaders and stakeholders to sustain the momentum by mobilising credible and like-minded individuals ahead of the 2027 general elections, assuring that the party offers a conducive environment for all members.
He noted that Taribo’s experience, leadership capacity and political network would significantly enhance the growth and electoral strength of the Labour Party in Ukwa East.
Also speaking, the member representing Ukwa East State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Lewis Obianyi, expressed confidence that with the growing strength and cohesion of the Labour Party in Ukwa East, governor Otti’s re-election in 2027 is assured.
Obianyi said 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 area for maintaining an open-door policy and thanked the council chairman for his proactive efforts in recruiting high-value individuals into the party and for working in synergy with party leaders to consolidate the party at the grassroots.