Abia Politics: Former APC Lawmaker, Others Defect to Labour Party in Ukwa East, Back Otti’s 2027 Re-election

Ukwa East Mayor Chibunna Akara receives new members as Labour Party strengthens grassroots structure

Labour Party leaders in Ukwa East Local Government Area of Abia State have welcomed a wave of defections led by Hon. Paul Taribo, a former member of the Abia State House of Assembly and erstwhile APC chieftain, in a move party officials say boosts support for Governor Alex Otti’s second-term ambition.

The defection ceremony, held on Saturday, 7 February 2026, at Ikwueke East Ward, was attended by party stakeholders and local officials, with Executive Mayor Hon. Chibunna Akara formally receiving Taribo, Mrs. Theresa Ijeoma Oxford Nwabara, and their supporters into the Labour Party.

Why the switch?

Taribo, who represented Ukwa East State Constituency and served as Deputy Majority Leader in the 7th Abia Assembly, said his decision followed what he described as the “visible achievements” of Governor Otti and his desire to contribute to the governor’s re-election bid in 2027.

He pledged to mobilise support for the party across Ikwueke East Ward and the wider Ukwa East area, citing confidence in the governor’s development agenda and the local party leadership.

Grassroots expansion ahead of 2027

Mayor Akara described the new entrants as a “valuable addition,” saying the Labour Party remains open to individuals committed to public service, regardless of past political affiliations. He urged party leaders to sustain mobilisation efforts as the 2027 general elections approach.

Also speaking, Hon. Lewis Obianyi, the serving member representing Ukwa East in the Abia State House of Assembly, said the party’s growing cohesion at the grassroots would translate into stronger electoral prospects for the governor and more development for the area.

Broad attendance by party figures

The event drew several Labour Party officials and community leaders, including the Deputy Mayor, Dr. (Hon.) Thelma Inglis-Ekeke; the party’s State Financial Secretary, Hon. Elvis Wabara; Ukwa East LP Chairman, Comrade Clement Nwankwo; and other legislative council leaders and stakeholders.

Party organisers said the defections reflect increasing alignment with the Labour Party’s agenda in Ukwa East and a consolidation of support structures at ward and local government levels.