Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has formally welcomed a wave of prominent political figures from the Umunneato–Ngwa axis into the Labour Party, in a move widely seen as a major boost to the party’s growing influence in the state.
Among those received were Chief Ncheta Omerekpe, Sir Onyebuchi Ememanka, Elder Dr. G.O.C Nnaji, Sir Andrew Ijeri, Hon. Chamberlain Onyenowe, Elder Christopher Mbogu, Dr Jesse Oduh, Prince Leo Enweremadu and several others who recently defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), All Progressives Congress (APC), and African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The reception ceremony, held at the Nbawsi Mini Stadium in Isialangwa North Local Government Area, drew a large crowd of party faithfuls, stakeholders and supporters.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Alex Otti assured the new entrants of equal treatment within the party, emphasizing that no member would face discrimination regardless of their political background.
Governor Otti used the occasion to shed more light on the ongoing Abia airport project in Nsulu, clarifying that the vision extends beyond a conventional aviation facility. According to him, the project is designed as a full-fledged “airport city,” aimed at driving economic growth, attracting investment and positioning Abia State as a strategic hub in the region.
He acknowledged concerns from some members of the Nsulu community regarding the siting of the project but reiterated his administration’s commitment to inclusive development and stakeholder engagement.
In his opening remarks, the Acting State Chairman of the Labour Party, Sir Emmanuel Oti, noted that the defectors cuts across the three local government areas that make up Umunneato. He described their decision to join the Labour Party as a clear indication of growing confidence in the current administration.
He further commended Governor Otti’s leadership, stating that his developmental strides have redefined governance in Abia State and restored public trust in leadership.
Also speaking, the host and Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, described the mass defection as unprecedented. He expressed appreciation to the Governor for embracing the new members and strengthening the party’s base across the state.
Pastor Ajagba, described the decision of the defectors as a bold and progressive move driven by conviction and a genuine desire to align with a government that prioritizes the welfare of the people. He noted that their defection was a clear testament to the growing confidence and trust in the leadership of the state.
Pastor Ajagba, while commending Governor Alex Otti, described him as a visionary and intentional leader whose administration is focused on delivering people-oriented policies and sustainable development. He emphasized that the governor remains committed to transforming Abia State through strategic reforms, infrastructural development, economic revitalization and improved service delivery across all sectors.
Speaking on behalf of the new entrants, Elder Dr. G.O.C Nnaji, a pioneer secretary of the PDP in Isialangwa North in 1998 and immediate past PDP Chairman in the area, said their decision to join the Labour Party was driven by the Governor’s transformative leadership and visible achievements.
Dr. Nnaji expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded them and pledged their unalloyed support for the governor’s re-election bid in 2027 as well as assured the party of their readiness to mobilize support at all levels to ensure continued progress and good governance in Abia State.
The event which featured handover of Labour party flag to the new entreants by Gov Otti, attracted the presence of the National Secretary of Labour party, Sen. Darlington Nwokocha, Member representing Osisioma Ngwa South State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Hon. Fyne Ahuama, Mayors of Isiala Ngwa North and Osisioma Ngwa, top government officials, Labour party faithfuls, critical stakeholders, traditional rulers, Abia Arise structure among other distinguished personalities.
