Internal conflicts within the Labour Party (LP) in Enugu State are causing the party’s structure to become unstable, and new signs point to an imminent mass defection from the party.
According to an investigation, important members were becoming increasingly dissatisfied, and several were already planning to leave for other political parties. This comes after there have been rumors of serious internal strife that has undermined party unity since the general elections in 2023.
One of the most significant actions was the official return to the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Monday by Chijioke Edeoga, the Labour Party’s candidate for governor in 2023.
At his official reception at the PDP secretariat in GRA, Enugu, Edeoga thanked Governor Peter Mbah, his Eha-Amufu Ward III, Isi-Uzo Local Government Area, and the state party leadership for making his return easily.
I’m glad to be here, I should say. Edeoga began by expressing his gratitude to the governor of Enugu State in a very particular way.
“I understand that without his political involvement, what has transpired today would not be possible.”
Reaffirming his loyalty to the PDP, he urged members to back Governor Mbah’s development plan for Enugu State.
“It’s time for us all to work together to support Governor Mbah in his wonderful work for the people of Enugu,” he continued.
The defection of Edeoga by lawmakers from the Labour Party comes after a recent wave of departures. Previously, six members of the Enugu State House of Assembly, who were chosen on the platform of the Labour Party, had switched to the PDP.
The legislators consist of:
Ejike Eze (North I of Igbo-Eze)
Among them are Amuka Williams (Igbo-Etiti East), Princess Ugwu (Enugu South Rural), Johnson Ugwu (Enugu North), and Osita Eze (Oji River).
Their defections further weakened the party’s presence in the state legislature.
Read Also: Governor Sanwo-Olu Reacts to Independence Bridge Closure, Issues Apology
Reacting to the development, Assembly spokesman and LP member, Harrison Ogara, noted that the defectors acted within
their rights.
“They have freedom of movement,” he said simply.
With its gubernatorial flagbearer and multiple lawmakers jumping ship, the Labour Party’s future in Enugu State hangs in the balance.
Party insiders say more defections may follow in the coming weeks unless the leadership moves quickly to resolve the internal crises.
