As internal conflicts continue to undermine the party’s structure throughout the state, new signs point to an imminent mass defection from the Labour Party (LP) in Enugu State.
According to an inquiry, there is increasing discontent among important members, and many are already planning to switch to other political parties. Reports of intense internal strife that has undermined party unity since the general elections in 2023 have led to the development.
The Labour Party’s 2023 candidate for governor, Chijioke Edeoga, made one of the most noteworthy announcements on Monday when he formally rejoined the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
At the PDP secretariat in GRA, Enugu, Edeoga was formally welcomed. He thanked Governor Peter Mbah, his Eha-Amufu Ward III, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, and the state party leadership for making his return easy.
“I would like to express my happiness at being here. First and foremost, I would like to express my gratitude to the governor of Enugu State,” Edeoga stated.
“I recognize that his political involvement is essential to understanding what has transpired today.”
He urged members to back Governor Mbah’s development program in Enugu State and reaffirmed his allegiance to the PDP.
He went on to say, “It is time for all of us to work together with Governor Mbah in the wonderful work he is doing for the people of Enugu.”
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The departure of Edeoga from the Labour Party is the latest in a string of lawmakers leaving the party. Six members of the Enugu State House of Assembly had previously switched to the PDP after being elected on the platform of the Labour Party.
Among the lawmakers are:
(Igbo-Eze North I) Ejike Eze
Princess Ugwu (Enugu South Rural), Amuka Williams (Igbo-Etiti East), Pius Ezeugwu (Nsukka West), Johnson Ugwu (Enugu North), and Osita Eze (Oji River)
The party’s influence in the state legislature was further undermined by their defections.
Harrison Ogara, an LP member and Assembly spokesman, responded to the news by saying that the defectors were acting legally.
He stated plainly, “They have freedom of movement.”
The Labour Party’s future in Enugu State is in jeopardy thanks to the resignation of its governor and some lawmakers.
According to party sources, unless the leadership acts swiftly to address the internal difficulties, further defections could occur in the upcoming weeks.
