Labour Party Tightens Grip on Abia Assembly as PDP’s Godwin Adiele Defects

Labour Party Tightens Grip on Abia Assembly as PDP’s Godwin Adiele Defects

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Labour Party (LP) has further strengthened its dominance in the Abia State House of Assembly following the defection of Godwin Adiele, the lawmaker representing the Ukwa West constituency. Adiele, who was previously a prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), officially announced his exit from his former party on Wednesday.

The defection was formally announced on the floor of the Abia State House of Assembly. Adiele attributed his decision to the impressive performance and leadership style of the state governor, Alex Otti. He expressed a desire to align with the current administration’s vision for the state’s development.

Explaining his move, Adiele noted that his decision was fueled by a commitment to the progress of Abia. He stated that “there was an urgent need for him to join Governor Otti in his crusade for good governance in the State.”

This move has significantly altered the numerical strength of the political parties within the 24-member legislative body. With Adiele’s crossover, the Labour Party now holds a commanding majority with 19 seats.

This shift further solidifies Governor Otti’s legislative support base.

In contrast, the PDP, which held the majority at the beginning of the current legislative term, has seen its influence dwindle to just four members. The remaining seat in the Assembly is held by the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a major reorganization of the state’s political landscape.