A major political shift has occurred in Abia State involving a prominent lawmaker Honorable Mandela Obasi and a new political alignment. Click the link below to read the full story.
A major political realignment appears to be unfolding in Abia State as the member representing Ohafia North State Constituency, Mandela Obasi, has officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and joined the Labour Party (LP).
The three-term member of the Abia State House of Assembly made the announcement on Wednesday shortly after a closed-door meeting with Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, held at the governor’s country home in Nvosi.
Also present at the meeting were the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu, alongside several political associates and supporters of the lawmaker.
Among those who accompanied Obasi were former Commissioner for Transport, Chief Kingsley Imaga, former Chairman of Ohafia Local Government Area, Princess Grace Agbara, and community leader Chief Ndukwe Orji Agu (ABROMA).
Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the lawmaker said his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party was primarily influenced by what he described as the visible developmental strides of Governor Alex Otti across Abia State.
According to him, the ongoing projects being executed by the state government have made it easier for political leaders to justify their support to constituents.
“I officially came here to identify myself with the Governor of Abia State and to properly join him in the Labour Party because of the works he is doing across Abia,” Obasi stated.
He particularly cited the Uzuakoli–Akara–Ohafia road project, describing it as a major infrastructure development that demonstrates the governor’s commitment to improving the state.
“The works are visible. If I go to my constituency, people will ask me: the road you drive through to Abiriba, who did it? It is the Governor of Abia State,” he added.
Obasi explained that after evaluating several political options and receiving invitations from different parties, he eventually decided that the Labour Party offered the most suitable platform.
“I checked very well. A lot of parties are coming to me, but I have made up my mind that I will go to the Labour Party. And the driver is Alex Otti,” he said.
Beyond developmental considerations, the lawmaker also pointed to internal crises within the PDP as another major reason for his decision to leave the party.
According to him, the party currently lacks a clear leadership direction, with several members allegedly aligning with other political platforms.
“I’m leaving PDP because we don’t have a leader any longer,” Obasi declared.
He further alleged that many members of the party are already positioning themselves in other political parties.
“Some of us in PDP, their legs are in ADC; some in APC. So what am I doing there?” he asked.
The lawmaker also claimed that within the Abia State House of Assembly, he is among the few remaining members still formally associated with the PDP, describing himself as “one of the last men standing” in the party.
Obasi also revealed that the political shift may not end with him alone.
According to the lawmaker, many of his supporters and political allies from Ohafia North State Constituency are expected to follow him to the Labour Party in the coming weeks.
He disclosed that a formal date for the defection of his supporters would soon be announced.
“When the time comes, people will see them,” he said confidently.
The lawmaker further emphasized his political influence within the constituency, noting that being elected three times into the Abia State House of Assembly demonstrates strong grassroots support.
“We own that constituency and I am a third-time House member. Before you become a third-time House member, you know what it takes. I am on ground,” Obasi declared.
Political observers believe the defection could have significant implications for the political balance within the Abia State House of Assembly, particularly as the Labour Party continues to consolidate its influence in the state following the emergence of Governor Alex Otti in 2023.
The development may also signal growing political realignments ahead of future elections, as politicians reposition themselves within the state’s evolving political landscape.
Listen to top Radio Stations in Abia State CLICK HERE
Support Afnews Independent Journalism
At Afnews, we are dedicated to providing accurate, insightful, and timely news coverage. Our commitment to journalistic integrity ensures that you receive trustworthy information, unfiltered and unbiased. To maintain our independence and continue delivering quality content, we rely on the support of our readers.
If you value the work we do, please consider making a contribution. Your support enables us to keep bringing you the stories that matter.
Donate today and help us keep independent journalism alive. Thank you for your support!
