Joseph Nwobasi, a member of the House of Representatives from Ebonyi State representing the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), has officially defected to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Nwobasi, who represents the Ezza North/Ishielu Federal Constituency, announced his defection on Sunday at the Ezza North Council Headquarters. He was joined by Kevin Okeh of the State House of Assembly who also switched allegiance to the APC.
Support for Tinubu and Nwifuru
The lawmaker, who was elected to the House in 2023 on the APGA platform and previously served as leader of the Ebonyi State House of Assembly, explained that his decision was motivated by a desire to strengthen support for both President Bola Tinubu and Governor Francis Nwifuru.
"I am happy to join the APC. My decision stems from a desire to support Governor Francis Nwifuru and his administration fully," Nwobasi stated during the defection ceremony.
"I believe Governor Nwifuru is truly the people's governor. His empowerment initiatives and infrastructural projects have been outstanding. We want to join forces with the President and especially Governor Nwifuru to build a better state and Nigeria," he added.
Local Government Support
Chief Moses Ogodo-Ali, chairman of Ezza North Local Government, interpreted the defection as a sign of his people's commitment to supporting Governor Nwifuru's re-election campaign in 2027.
"Our people have agreed that no Ezza man or woman will contest the 2027 governorship. Governor Nwifuru is our sole candidate," Ogodo-Ali declared.
He further emphasized, "Those joining us today do so in line with our collective resolve. We expect more defections in the coming months. I assure you, Mr Chairman, that the mistakes of 2023 will not be repeated in Ezzaland. In 2027, we shall deliver votes that will surpass any in the political history of Ezza land."
APC Chairman's Response
Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha, the APC chairman in Ebonyi State, welcomed the new members, stating that the party is broad enough to accommodate everyone who aligns with Governor Nwifuru's vision.
However, he cautioned the defectors to behave appropriately and show respect to existing party members. "Avoid creating factions. The party will not tolerate divisive behaviour in any form. You must work with other leaders and members in your areas to strengthen the APC ahead of 2027," Okoro-Emegha advised.
This defection adds to the growing list of political realignments as parties begin positioning for the 2027 general elections.
Follow BenriNews on social media for more updates:
