In a surprising turn of events, six members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, all affiliated with the Labour Party, have crossed the aisle to join the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The lawmakers, including Ejike Eze, Johnson Ugwu, Princess Ugwu, Pius Ezeugwu, Amuka Williams, and Osita Eze, announced their defections during Thursday’s plenary session in Enugu. Their decision was conveyed through a letter read by the Speaker of the House, Uche Ugwu.
Citing irreconcilable divisions and ongoing crises within the Labour Party at both the national and state levels, the defectors expressed their disillusionment with their former party. They lamented the party’s descent into perpetual discord and internal strife, which, they claimed, hampered its ability to effectively represent the interests of the people.
Formerly viewed as a beacon of hope for progressive ideas, the Labour Party, according to the defectors, has become synonymous with internal conflicts, undermining its capacity to fulfill the aspirations of the electorate.
Optimistic about their decision, the lawmakers expressed confidence that the PDP would provide them with a robust platform to serve their constituents diligently.
The defections come amidst reports of a power struggle within the Labour Party, highlighted by an alleged takeover of the party’s administration by its Board of Trustees. These developments unfolded shortly after the re-election of National Chairman Julius Abure and the return of all members of the National Working Committee during the party’s national convention in Nnewi, Anambra State.