Joshua Chinedu Obika, the representative for AMAC/Bwari Federal Constituency in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), has formally defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Obika made the announcement in a letter submitted to the House of Representatives on Wednesday, attributing his decision to the ongoing leadership crisis within the Labour Party.
In the letter, he explained that persistent internal divisions and the emergence of multiple factions had hindered the party’s ability to operate effectively.
“I write with profound respect to formally notify the Honourable House of my decision to defect from the LP to the APC. This decision has become necessary and inevitable due to the prolonged and unresolved leadership crises in the LP, which has resulted in deep divisions and the emergence of multiple factions,” he stated.
Obika added that several attempts to reconcile the feuding groups within the party had failed, leaving the party weakened and unable to operate democratically.
“Regrettably, all genuine efforts at reconciliation have failed, thereby crippling the party’s capacity to function effectively and democratically.”
The lawmaker also pointed to the recent area council elections in the FCT as an example of how the internal crisis had negatively affected the party’s operations.
“The impact of this internal crisis was more evident during the recent Area Council elections in the FCT, where the LP candidates were not uploaded on the INEC portal, leading to widespread disenfranchisement of our supporters and members,” Obika explained.
According to him, the development had eroded confidence in the party’s leadership and organisational structure.
“This unfortunate development has eroded confidence in the party leadership and organisational structure.”
Obika further noted that his decision followed sustained pressure and appeals from political associates and stakeholders within his constituency.
“This decision is informed by consistent pressure, appeals and demands from our constituency, political associates and stakeholders of the APC who have persistently urged me to return to my political family,” he added.