In a significant political shift, Chris Okewulonu, former Chief of Staff to ex-Imo State Governor Emeka Ihedioha, and Chuma Nnaji, Ihedioha’s former deputy governorship candidate, formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday, bringing their supporters along.
During an event at the APC Secretariat in Owerri, Okewulonu addressed party members, citing his disillusionment with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
“You may recall that I recently resigned as a member of the PDP and its Board of Trustees,” Okewulonu began.
“This decision followed deep introspection and extensive consultations with my family, political associates, and well-wishers.
The PDP’s foundational qualities, which initially attracted me, have been continuously eroded and ultimately lost,” he continued.
Okewulonu explained that stepping back from active politics allowed him to evaluate Imo’s political landscape critically.
“With the persistent disarray within the opposition parties, I questioned whether I could continue aligning with an ineffective opposition or position myself to actively contribute to my people’s progress,” he stated.
He praised Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration for its achievements, particularly in infrastructure and governance.
“The 3R administration under Senator Hope Uzodimma has delivered notable dividends of good governance.
Its significant investments in roads, infrastructure, and human capacity building are evident testimonies of its commitment,” Okewulonu added.
Governor Uzodimma, welcoming the defectors, highlighted the growing appeal of the APC.
“APC was once seen as an outsider in Imo politics, but today, it’s clear that we are the party working for the people.
Genuine leaders who want progress for Imo are joining us,” Uzodimma said.
He likened the inclusion of Okewulonu and Nnaji to recruiting star players, saying, “With them, we now have the Ronaldos and Messis in our party.”
Nnaji, a former Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, echoed similar sentiments, affirming confidence in the APC leadership.
“We’re not here alone.
Over 3,000 supporters who share our vision have joined us,” Nnaji announced.
Other notable defectors include Paschal Obi, a former House of Representatives member for Ideato South, and Tochukwu Okere, representing Owerri Federal Constituency, along with several key political figures.
The defections mark a major boost for the APC in Imo State, further solidifying its growing influence in the region.
