Another Enugu LP Rep defects to APC, says Tinubu developing Southeast

🇳🇬 Pidgin Version

<p class="my-6 leading-relaxed text-foreground">A prominent member of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu, who represents the Enugu North and South Federal Constituency, has officially left the Labour Party (LP) to join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The announcement was made during a plenary session at the National Assembly, where Atu expressed his decision through a formal letter addressed to the House leadership.</p><p class="my-6 leading-relaxed text-foreground">Atu, a well-regarded figure in Enugu politics, attributed his move to his belief in the developmental strides being made in the Southeast under President Bola Tinubu’s administration. He highlighted the government’s commitment to regional growth, particularly through initiatives like the proposed Southeast Development Commission, as a key factor influencing his defection. Additionally, Atu pointed to internal challenges within the Labour Party, describing them as obstacles that have hindered the party’s ability to deliver effective leadership for his constituents.</p><p class="my-6 leading-relaxed text-foreground">The defection was acknowledged by House Speaker Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, who read Atu’s letter during the session. This move follows a similar pattern, as another Enugu representative, Prof. Paul Nnamchi, recently made a comparable switch to the APC, signaling a potential shift in the region’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.</p><p class="my-6 leading-relaxed text-foreground">Local voices in Enugu have mixed reactions. Some residents speculate that the APC could emerge as a strong contender against the dominant Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state, especially as the Labour Party grapples with internal crises. However, concerns were raised by the minority whip, Hon. Isa Jessy, who referenced constitutional provisions that may require lawmakers to vacate their seats upon defection from the party under which they were elected.</p><p class="my-6 leading-relaxed text-foreground">Atu’s decision underscores the ongoing realignment in Nigeria’s political sphere, with the APC gaining ground as opposition parties face increasing fragmentation.</p>