The Labour Party (LP) has expanded its support base in Ohafia Local Government Area following the defection of scores of members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the party.

The new members, drawn from several wards and communities across the council area, were formally welcomed by Labour Party leaders, stakeholders, and supporters during a well-attended gathering in Ohafia.

Speaking on behalf of the defectors, the group’s leader said their decision to leave APGA was influenced by what they described as the transformational leadership of Governor Alex Otti and the inclusive style of governance championed by Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu.

According to him, the administration’s achievements in key sectors have increased public confidence in government and encouraged more progressive-minded individuals to align with the Labour Party.

The defectors praised Governor Otti for implementing reforms and development initiatives across the state, while also commending Deputy Governor Emetu for his commitment to grassroots engagement and his contributions to the development of Abia North and the state as a whole.

Addressing the gathering, Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu thanked the new members for joining the party and expressed appreciation for the confidence they had shown in the Labour Party.

He assured them of equal opportunities within the party and encouraged them to remain committed to the shared goal of building a more prosperous and progressive Abia State.

Emetu further stated that the Labour Party remains a platform for individuals dedicated to service, accountability, and sustainable development. He urged the defectors to actively promote the party’s ideals and programmes within their various communities.

The event featured the presentation of Labour Party membership cards and party insignia to the new members, who openly declared their support for the party and its administration.

Party stakeholders described the development as a significant boost to the Labour Party’s grassroots structure in Ohafia, noting that the influx of new members would further strengthen the party’s position ahead of future elections.

The gathering ended with a renewed commitment by party members and the defectors to work together in advancing the development agenda of Governor Alex Otti and Deputy Governor Ikechukwu Emetu for the benefit of Abia State.