UMUAHIA, Abia State – A significant political tremor has rocked Abia State as Onyebuchi Ememanka, the former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu, has publicly switched allegiance to current Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party, effectively acknowledging past administrations’ shortcomings. This dramatic move signals a growing shift in the state’s political landscape and raises questions about the future of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Abia.
Ememanka’s decision, revealed through a Facebook post featuring a photograph with Governor Otti, follows his resignation from the PDP last week. In his statement, he emphasized a need to prioritize Abia’s development over party loyalty. “Finally, after a series of meetings and deep personal reflection, I have made my decision. A time has come for me to choose a new path for Abia State’s future,” he wrote. “I have chosen to put Abia first and prioritize her sustainable development above all else. I have chosen Otti. I have chosen the Labour Party.”
His resignation letter to the PDP highlighted the party’s perceived failure to address its electoral losses and formulate a strategic path forward. “Remaining in the PDP will make my vision a mirage,” Ememanka stated, while expressing gratitude for the opportunities provided by the party during his tenure.
This defection marks a notable departure for Ememanka, who was a staunch defender of Ikpeazu’s administration. His move is being interpreted by political analysts as an implicit admission of the previous administration’s shortcomings, particularly concerning development and governance.
Ememanka is not alone in abandoning the Ikpeazu camp. He joins a growing list of former key figures, including:
- Anthony Agbazuere, former Chief of Staff to Ikpeazu.
- Eze Chikamnayo, former Commissioner for Information and Strategy.
- Chief Chimezie Okoronkwo, former Abia State representative in the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
- Chief Eze Nwanganga, former Commissioner for Public Utilities.
- Chief Uzo Ihuka, former Commissioner in the Abia State Oil Producing Area Development Commission (ASOPADEC).
- Chief Sam Nwogu, former Commissioner for Environment.
- Former ASOPADEC Chairman.
This mass exodus from the PDP, particularly from those closely associated with the former governor, has sparked discussions about the potential collapse of Ikpeazu’s political influence in the state. Sources close to the situation suggest that many are aligning themselves with Governor Otti, who is perceived as bringing a fresh and progressive approach to governance.
Governor Otti’s rise to power in the last election was seen by many as a mandate for change. The influx of former Ikpeazu loyalists into his camp indicates a growing confidence in his leadership and a desire to be part of the new direction of Abia State. The political climate in Abia state is charged, and this latest move will certainly lead to more political changes in the coming months.
