Over 1,000 Defect to Labour Party in Acha as Ekekwe, Aja Join

No fewer than 1,000 supporters defected to the Labour Party in Acha, Isuikwuato, in a development widely seen as a significant political gain for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Prominent among the new members were former two-term Chairman of Isuikwuato Local Government Area, Hon. Obinna Ekekwe; his wife; former council chairman, Chief Chris Aja; and several other political stakeholders from Acha and neighbouring communities.

The defectors were formally received at a colourful ceremony attended by top government officials, party leaders, traditional rulers, women’s groups, youths, and supporters from across the local government area.

Speaking at the event, the Governor of Abia State, Dr Alex Otti, who was represented by his deputy, Engr Ikechukwu Emetu, described the mass defection as clear evidence that the wave of political realignment sweeping across the state had reached Isuikwuato.

He said the decision of the new entrants to join the Labour Party reflected growing public confidence in the administration’s commitment to transparent leadership, accountability, and people-oriented governance.

According to him, Acha has become a symbol of unity, inclusion, and political awakening, urging party members to sustain the momentum by taking the message of good governance to every community in Isuikwuato.

Also speaking, the Abia State Chairman of the Labour Party, Mr Peter Azubuike, said the calibre of politicians joining the party had further strengthened its structure in the area.

Azubuike assured the defectors that the party has no room for discrimination, stressing that both old and new members would enjoy equal rights, privileges, and responsibilities.

He charged the new members to return to their various polling units and commence grassroots mobilisation in preparation for future elections.

In their separate remarks, the member representing Isuikwuato State Constituency, Hon. Ken Ahia; Hon. Lucky Johnson; and the Commissioner for Trade and Commerce, Mrs Salome Obiukwu, expressed delight over the massive turnout.

They commended Governor Otti’s administration, noting that ongoing developmental projects across the state have continued to attract more supporters to the Labour Party.

The leaders also urged residents of Acha and the wider Isuikwuato area to register as party members and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards ahead of the 2027 polls.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Chief Chris Aja and Hon. Obinna Ekekwe said their decision to join the Labour Party was voluntary and informed by what they described as the visible achievements of the Otti administration.

They pledged to work with other party faithful to ensure victory for Governor Otti and all Labour Party candidates in future elections.

The government delegation later paid a courtesy visit to the traditional ruler of Acha Autonomous Community, Eze Augustine Iroakazi Erum II, and members of his cabinet.