Imo LP Senator, Kogi ADC Rep defect to APC

Onyewuchi                                                                 Salman

• ‘Onyewuchi’s defection testament to Uzodimma’s leadership’

Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchi (Imo East) of the Labour Party has defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

His defection was formally announced on the floor by Senate President Godswill Akpabio.
Onyewuchi, in his letter of defection, cited ‘crisis’ in Labour Party as reason for his action.

Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma led a delegation of politicians to the Senate to witness the defection and also formally welcome Onyewuchi to the APC.

Similarly, lawmaker representing Ijumu/Kabba Bunu Federal constituency of Kogi State in the House of Representatives, Idris Salman, yesterday announced his defection from the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) to the APC.

Salman, who is one of the two ADC lawmakers elected into the 10th Assembly, said he is joining the APC after due consultations.

His defection, which is the first since the House was inaugurated on June 13, 2023, was greeted with loud applause at plenary.

But Minority Whip, Ali Isa JC, asked the House to declare Salman’s seat vacant in accordance with provisions of the Constitution.

According to him, the Constitution provides that any member who defects from the party that sponsored him to the House should lose his seat, especially when there is no crisis in the party.

However, Isa’s position was drowned in a cacophony of voices as the chamber became rowdy with members who did not want his voice heard.

Salman’s defection reduces the number of the minority caucus to 179.

The APC in Imo State welcomed Onyewuchi’s defection and described it as ‘a testament to the unmatched leadership of Governor Hope Uzodimma’.

A statement by the Publicity Secretary, Cajetan Duke, reads: “We are thrilled to receive Senator Onyewuchi into our party. His defection is a clear indication that our party is the most visible, strong, and cohesive political party in the state and Southeast.

“Governor Uzodimma’s efforts have made APC the go-to party for politicians who want to make a difference. We believe that Senator Onyewuchi’s defection is a step in the right direction towards achieving our goal of delivering good governance and dividends of democracy to the people. Together, we will work towards a brighter future for our people.”