The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has spoken out on the recent defection of Abia South Senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe, to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Rev. Augustine Ehiemere, APGA’s National Vice Chairman for the South-East zone, addressed the development in a phone interview. According to Ehiemere, the party remains unfazed by Abaribe’s exit and is confident that it will continue to grow stronger in Abia State and across the South-East region.
Ehiemere expressed his disappointment with politicians who defect to other parties after achieving their goals on the platforms of their original parties. He emphasized that APGA is a disciplined party that upholds the principles of democracy, and the defection of some members will not deter its progress. “APGA is a defender of democratic principles, and we are not perturbed by chronic party defectors,” he stated.
The APGA vice chairman noted that many politicians who switch parties often do so without making significant contributions to their former parties. He called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to introduce stricter policies to curb the abuse of defection by Nigerian politicians. This, he believes, will help maintain the integrity of the country’s political system.
Abaribe’s defection to the ADC has sparked interest in the political landscape of Abia State and the South-East region. Efforts to reach Uchenna Awom, Senator Abaribe’s media aide, for comment were unsuccessful, as calls and messages sent to him were not returned.
The development highlights the ongoing dynamics of party politics in Nigeria, where defections are common. As the country prepares for future elections, the actions of politicians like Abaribe will likely be closely watched. APGA’s stance on the matter underscores its commitment to upholding democratic principles and promoting political stability in the region. With the electoral commission’s potential response to Ehiemere’s call for stricter defection policies, the situation will likely continue to unfold in the coming days.