Former Ukwa East Deputy Chairman, Ex-Agriculture Adviser Defect To Labour Party With Supporters

The political landscape of Ukwa East Local Government Area has received a significant boost as the immediate past Deputy Chairman of Ukwa East, Hon. Rowland Omoni, and the former Special Adviser on Agriculture to the immediate past Governor of Abia State under the PDP-led administration, Hon. Israel Bethel, formally defected to the Labour Party alongside their supporters.

The defectors were received in Azumini Ward by the Executive Chairman of Ukwa East LGA, Hon. Chibunna Akara, who applauded their decision to align with the administration of Alex Chioma Otti. He described the new entrants as valuable assets whose experience, grassroots reach and political influence would further consolidate the party’s growing dominance in the area.

Hon. Akara reiterated that the Labour Party remains open and inclusive, welcoming all individuals willing to contribute meaningfully to the development of Ukwa East and Abia State at large. He urged party leaders and stakeholders in Azumini Ward to intensify grassroots mobilization and encouraged eligible citizens to participate actively in the ongoing voter registration exercise, noting that civic participation remains essential to sustaining good governance.

Also speaking at the event, Hon. Lewis Obianyi, Member representing Ukwa East State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, expressed confidence that the steady wave of defections into the Labour Party signals a continued political realignment in support of Governor Otti’s administration. He commended the party leadership in Ukwa East for fostering unity and expanding its reach across communities.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, Hon. Rowland Omoni expressed gratitude for the warm reception accorded them. He stated that their decision to join the Labour Party was driven by the visible achievements and transformative leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, as well as their collective resolve to contribute meaningfully to his re-election in 2027. He pledged unwavering loyalty to the party and assured members of their commitment to strengthening its structure in Azumini Ward and across Ukwa East.

The event was attended by key stakeholders, including Hon. Lewis Obianyi; Pastor Adindu Iheanyi, SECLOG; Comrade Clement Nwankwo, Labour Party Chairman, Ukwa East Chapter; Hon. Charles Ukaegbu, Majority Leader, Ukwa East Legislative Council; Hon. Bright Ekeke, Councillor representing Azumini Ward; and other party faithful.