In a significant political move, Hon. Chidiebere Okoh, the 2023 House of Assembly candidate of the Action Democratic Party (ADP) for Bende North Constituency in Abia State, has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This decision was supported by a large number of his followers from the five electoral wards that make up the state constituency, including ward chairmen, youth, and women leaders of the ADP.

The announcement was made at a gathering held at the Okoko Item Civic Hall, where Okoh emphasized that his decision to join the APC was not solely for electoral purposes but to align himself with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, who he believes have shown commendable leadership in their roles.

Okoh expressed his commitment to working alongside other like-minded individuals within the APC to secure victory in the upcoming 2027 elections. He also vowed to foster unity within the party, starting from his local electoral ward in Bende North State Constituency.

Welcoming the ADP defectors, Chief Anthony Onyekwere, the Chairman of the APC, Item Ward B in Bende Local Government Area, commended their decision and expressed optimism about the party’s prospects in future elections. He highlighted the increasing number of members from other political parties joining the APC in Abia State, which he believes will bolster the party’s success at all levels of governance.

As the defectors integrate into the APC, they have been assured of equal rights and fair treatment in all party activities, with a call to uphold party principles and avoid engaging in activities that could undermine the party’s unity and progress. This move signifies a significant shift in the political landscape of Abia State, setting the stage for a dynamic and competitive political environment in the upcoming elections.