In a significant political shift, Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, a member of the House of Representatives, has announced his departure from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the Action People’s Party (APP). This revelation took place on Wednesday in his hometown of Akokwa, located within the Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State. Ugochinyere expressed that his decision stemmed from the failed attempts to revitalize the PDP, ultimately leading to his exit from the party.
Reflecting on his tumultuous experience within the PDP, Ugochinyere highlighted the numerous legal battles he faced due to actions taken against him by fellow party members. "Since our journey with the PDP commenced until now, we have been entangled in court proceedings with our own party as we fought to retain a seat that had not been won by them for over fifteen years until we secured victory for them. After enduring these hardships over the past three to four years, should we really put ourselves through that again? Should we test fate to see if we can endure another round? It’s worth noting that some of those within our party even testified against us during tribunal hearings,” he stated.
He found it particularly disrespectful as the sole federal lawmaker representing the state that his party seemed content to decline while they pursued other interests far from home.
Ugochinyere emphasized, "We are eager to build and earn every single vote, which is why we have chosen to align with a political party that we can develop from the ground up, one energized by youth. We sought out a party that did not currently hold any governorship so that we could forge ahead confidently in our vision. Based on this rationale, I have made the decision to leave the PDP."
Additionally, the lawmaker took the opportunity to address the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Mr. Nyesom Wike, urging him to cease any further derogatory remarks aimed at the Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Tensions have been rising between Wike and Senator Azuta Mbata, the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, primarily surrounding political issues in Rivers State.
Ugochinyere articulated that any insults directed at the President General of the Ohanaeze Ndigbo are perceived as direct affronts to the entire Igbo community, asserting that such behavior will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He called upon President Bola Tinubu to counsel Wike and compel him to respect the Igbo people.
"I must caution you—your choice to attack the Igbo nation by insulting our President General must end here. While we can endure many things, to belittle the leader whom all Igbos recognize as fit to represent our race globally crosses a line. He holds the title of President General of the Igbo nation worldwide, from Antarctica to the furthest reaches of the earth. Today, at the Ime Obio meeting of the Igbo youth, they have issued a stern warning to you: do not provoke our tribe again.
"Focus your political strategies on those who permit such actions, but do not undermine the President of the Igbo nation. Senator Azuta Mbata is not someone of your caliber. The entire Ndigbo community respects him as our leader. Remember, he assisted you and provided you with opportunities; that does not justify any form of insult," Ugochinyere firmly stated.
The legislator also expressed his disappointment regarding the lack of action from the police concerning those arrested for attacking his residence, despite their admissions of guilt.
