PDP suffers heavy blow as over 1,300 defect to APC in Imo

From Stanley Uzoaru, Owerri

Governor Hope Uzodimma has welcomed 1,320 former People’s Democratic Party (PDP) members into the All Progressives Congress (APC), citing a desire for unity and development in Imo State.

The defectors, including former PDP officials, praised Uzodimma’s leadership and pledged loyalty to the APC, saying they’ve “seen the light”. Uzodimma described their decision to join his party as a step toward unity and accelerated development in Imo State.

Addressing the new APC members at the Sam Mbakwe Executive Council Chambers, Government House, Owerri, on Monday, Uzodimma said the move was not about political history, but about “a new trajectory of development” for the state. “This decision is not about personal gain; it is in the interest of our people. The government of Imo State belongs to all of us,” he said.

The governor stressed the need for collective responsibility in governance, noting that insecurity and infrastructure challenges require joint efforts. He assured the new APC members of equal rights and opportunities, pledging to work closely with them and consider some for appointments. Uzodimma also highlighted the historic contributions of the Igbo people to Nigeria’s development and called for renewed unity and focus. “We must move forward, not backward. The common denominator is the interest of our state and our people,” he stated.

He thanked the APC leadership for receiving the defectors without discrimination. The Imo State Chairman of the APC, Sir MacDonald Ebere, expressed joy that a number of quality members of the PDP have joined the APC, and assured the defectors of full recognition and equal status in the party. He described them as the “substance and oxygen” of the PDP, noting that their decision to join the APC marked a significant political shift in Imo State.

Ebere praised Governor Uzodimma for uniting the state through inclusive leadership and urged the new members not to fear over marginalisation. “You will retain your status and even be better recognised in the APC,” he said, adding that the party remains open and welcoming to all.

The defectors led by Evangelist Mike Ikoku, the coordinator of the Hopism Movement, acknowledged that all the members have resigned from PDP and, now, duly registered with the APC.

Expressing their joy, Hon. Jeff Nwachukwu, former PDP House of Assembly candidate, Mr. Mike Nkwocha, Ugorji Onuegbu, and others who spoke, pointed out that their conviction to join APC was due to the performance and leadership sagacity of Governor Uzodimma.

They pleaded with the governor to accept them into the APC fold as prodigal sons who have repented and have seen the light. They maintained that their defection was an expression of their support for good governance in the state and the nation, and pledged their loyalty to the APC ideals.