The Abia State chapter of the Labour Party has ushered in a new phase of unity and renewed political strength following the successful conduct of its State Congress, which produced a new set of executives to steer the affairs of the party.

The Congress, held through a consensus arrangement, culminated in the emergence of Mr. Peter Azubuike from Obingwa Local Government Area as State Chairman. Mrs. Ibe Eucharia of Aba North was elected Deputy Chairman, alongside Mr. Emmanuel Alozie (Bende) and Mr. Okoye Iloabuchi, who will serve as Deputy Chairmen representing the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), respectively.

Describing the outcome as the dawn of a new era, Governor Alex Otti emphasized the need for unity, cohesion, and collective purpose, noting that the Congress marked the end of internal divisions within the party.

“This is the beginning of a new era. Gone are the days when individuals pull in different directions; we will now move forward together,” the Governor stated. He assured the newly elected leadership of the government’s continued support, pledging close collaboration to ensure a smooth and effective take-off.

Governor Otti also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing leadership led by Sir Emmanuel Nweze-Oti, commending their resilience in steering the party through challenging times.

The Governor further disclosed that delegates would reconvene in Umuahia for the party’s national convention scheduled for Tuesday next week.

Earlier, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Political Matters, Chief Acho Obioma, traced the processes leading to the Congress, noting that activities commenced at the ward and local government levels before culminating at the state level. He highlighted that the consensus arrangement fostered inclusiveness and equitable representation across the state.

In his remarks, the State Congress Coordinator, Dr. Chibuzo Okereke, described the exercise as a critical democratic process conducted in full compliance with constitutional provisions, the Electoral Act, and party guidelines. He added that officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) monitored the exercise.

Speaking to journalists shortly after his emergence, the new State Chairman, Mr. Peter Azubuike, expressed confidence in the party’s readiness to retain the governorship seat and secure sweeping victories in the 2027 general elections. He pledged to strengthen the party through aggressive membership mobilization and consolidation of grassroots support.

The Congress attracted party delegates, stakeholders, and observers, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the Labour Party’s organizational structure.

Other elected officials include Rev. Andrew Ohiagba (Isiala Ngwa North), Dr. Kingsley Nwaobilor (Ugwunagbo), and Prince Okechukwu (Bende) as Deputy Chairmen.

Mr. Chuks Akanmadu (Umuahia North) emerged as State Secretary, while Mrs. Nkiruka Olivia Ukaonu (Aba North) and Mr. O’Brien Iroh (Ohafia) were elected Assistant Secretaries.

Mrs. Joy Ngozi Anyanwu (Umuahia South) is the State Treasurer, with Mr. Elvis Nwagbara (Ukwa East) as Financial Secretary.

Mr. Emenike Iroegbu (Isuikwuato) was elected State Publicity Secretary, while Mr. Ben Ikechukwu Oti (Arochukwu) will serve as Organising Secretary. Mr. Ndubuisi Nwosu (Osisioma) retained his position as State Legal Adviser, and Chief Ngozi Ananaba (Ugwunagbo) emerged as State Auditor.

Mrs. Elizabeth Udo Kalu (Arochukwu) is the State Women Leader, supported by Mrs. Akachi Jacob (Ikwuano), Mrs. Lilian Obi (Aba South), and Miss Stephanie Nneoma Alilionwu (Bende) as Assistant Women Leaders.

In the youth category, Mr. Uche Nwagbo (Isiala Ngwa South) was elected Youth Leader, with Edith Pamela Adiele (Ukwa West), Mr. Ajaero Best Uchenna (Umunneochi), and Mr. Ezebuiro Chijioke (Isiala Ngwa North) serving as Assistant Youth Leaders.

The successful Congress signals a repositioned and united Labour Party in Abia State, poised for greater political victories in the years ahead.