Former Imo State governor, Dr. Achike Udenwa, has formally joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC), a move seen as a significant boost for the party in the state.
Udenwa completed his registration at his Amaifeke ward in Orlu Local Government Area, where he was enrolled as member number 001 in the ward. The process was carried out by the ward secretary, Hon. Anthony Okoro, while the ward chairman, Hon. Engr. Uzonna Oriowe, presented him with his ADC membership card.
Several party officials and supporters were present at the event, including the ADC chairman in Orlu LGA, Chief Hon. Aloma Uchenna.
He said, “I joined the ADC because it is made up of people of integrity, many of whom I worked with during my administration. The party offers a credible platform for accountable leadership and internal democracy. My decision is driven by service to the people and the need to strengthen governance in Imo State and Nigeria,” Udenwa stated.
He described his registration as Number 001 in his ward as symbolic and meaningful, adding that he was pleased to formally begin his ADC journey from his grassroots.
“This is my ward, and I am happy to start from here. Together, we will build a party that truly serves the interests of the people,”.
The Imo State chairman of ADC, Prof. James Okoroma, led members of the State Executive Committee and party stakeholders from the Orlu Zone to witness the event. Other dignitaries present included Prof. Francis Ukaigkwe, Dr. Vin Udokwu, and several party leaders.
Okoroma described Udenwa’s defection as a landmark moment for the ADC in Imo State, noting that it reflected growing confidence in the party’s leadership and vision.
“The entry of Chief Achike Udenwa into the ADC significantly strengthens our party. Registering him as Number 001 in Amaifeke Ward underscores our commitment to grassroots mobilisation and statewide expansion.
“Since our Enugu declaration on December 31, 2025, we have received increasing interest from prominent individuals across political parties who are eager to join ADC,” he highlighted.
Welcoming Udenwa, the Amaifeke ward chairman, Engr. Uzonna Oriowe, said the former governor’s entrance into the party would enhance ADC’s chances ahead of the 2027 elections.
Similar sentiments were echoed by the ADC Orlu Zonal Chairman, Hon. Ezeru Damian, and the Orlu LGA Chairman, Hon. Chief Alloy Oluigbo (Aloma), who described Udenwa as a leader whose administration exemplified good governance.
They noted that his decision to join ADC signalled the beginning of a new political momentum in Imo State.
In his remarks, Udenwa pledged loyalty to the party and assured members of his commitment to building a strong platform capable of effecting positive change.
“I am grateful for the warm reception into the ADC family. I am leaving the PDP to help build a solid platform that can correct leadership failures and bring redemption to the people.
“ADC is filled with Godly, disciplined and visionary leaders,” he said.
He called on Imo residents to join the ADC en masse, describing the party as a vehicle for political liberation and improved governance.
“Udenwa also urged party leaders to remain open, united and accommodating to new members as the party expands.
“Let us lead with love and unity. We must work hard, welcome newcomers warmly and remain focused, if we are to win elections and restore hope to our people,” he submitted.
It is instructive to note that the event marks a significant turning point for the ADC in Imo State as the party positions itself as a formidable opposition ahead of future elections in the country.