In a dramatic political shakeup that has sent shockwaves through Nigeria's political landscape, five members of the House of Representatives from Enugu State have officially crossed carpet to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Mass Exodus Rocks Enugu Politics
The defection, which represents one of the most significant political movements in the Southeast region recently, saw the lawmakers formally announce their departure from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) during a plenary session on Tuesday.
The affected representatives include:
- Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu representing Enugu North/Enugu South Federal Constituency
- Hon. Anayo Onwuegbu from Awgu/Aninri/Oji River Federal Constituency
- Hon. Nnolim Nnaji of Nkanu East/Nkanu West Federal Constituency
- Hon. Oforna Ozoka representing Enugu East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency
- Hon. Stella Ngwu from Igbo-Etiti/Uzo-Uwani Federal Constituency
Speaker Announces Defection
The Speaker of the House, Tajudeen Abbas, made the formal announcement during the day's proceedings, reading the official communication from the lawmakers about their decision to switch political allegiance.
This mass defection significantly alters the political arithmetic in Enugu State, traditionally considered a stronghold of the PDP. The move is seen as a major boost for the APC's influence in the Southeast region and could have far-reaching implications for upcoming elections.
Political Implications
Political analysts are describing this development as a "game-changer" for Enugu State politics. The defection of five federal lawmakers simultaneously suggests a major realignment of political forces in the state and could signal growing acceptance of the ruling party in a region where it has historically faced challenges.
The timing of this political movement is particularly significant, coming as political parties prepare for future electoral contests. It represents one of the largest single defections from the PDP to APC in recent times, especially from the Southeast geopolitical zone.
This development is likely to trigger further political realignments in Enugu State and across the Southeast, as stakeholders reassess their political positions and alliances in light of this major shift in the political landscape.
