Shock in Abia as Reps Member Mascot Ikwechegh Dumps APGA for LP Amid APC Rumours, Meets Otti
There was political surprise in Abia State on Tuesday as the member representing Aba North/Aba South Federal Constituency, Mascot Ikwechegh, officially defected to the Labour Party (LP), putting an end to speculations linking him with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Ikwechegh’s move comes barely four days after he formally resigned from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), alongside several party executives in Aba.
Speaking with journalists on Tuesday, the federal lawmaker confirmed that he is now a card-carrying member of the Labour Party.
Meets Governor Otti
Shortly after announcing his defection, Ikwechegh met behind closed doors with Abia State Governor, Alex Otti.
Although details of the meeting were not made public, political observers believe the development significantly strengthens the Labour Party’s political structure in Aba and across Abia State ahead of future electoral contests.
Why He Left APGA
While Ikwechegh has yet to publicly outline detailed reasons for leaving APGA, insiders suggest that internal party disagreements and strategic political realignments ahead of future elections may have influenced his decision.
His defection also effectively dispels widespread rumours that he was heading to the APC, a move that had generated mixed reactions among his supporters.
Meanwhile, the Abia State Chairman of APGA, Sunday Onukwubiri, had earlier told journalists that the party’s state office in Umuahia was not formally notified of Ikwechegh’s resignation.
Onukwubiri maintained that APGA remains united and will continue to function peacefully and strongly despite the exit of any individual member.
Political Implications
Analysts say the development further consolidates Governor Otti’s influence within the state’s political landscape and signals continued momentum for the
Labour Party in Abia.
With shifting alliances gradually reshaping the state’s political structure, observers believe more realignments may follow in the coming months.
