Abia APC chieftain lauds ex-deputy gov’s defection to LP

• Rallies Okocha for Kalu’s re-election
• Group launches voter registration drive in state

A Chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, Edward Kalu Okocha, has congratulated the immediate past Deputy Governor of the state, Ude Oko Chukwu, on his recent defection to the ruling Labour Party (LP), but urged him not to seek the Abia North Senatorial seat in 2027.

In a statement issued yesterday in Ameke, Abiriba, Okocha described Chukwu’s defection as a bold and strategic step, noting that his decision to join Governor Alex Otti’s party underscores his commitment to the progress of Abia State and Abia North Senatorial Zone in particular.

He, however, cautioned the former Deputy Governor against allowing the excitement of his new political chapter to push him into contesting the Senate seat, stressing that Orji Uzor Kalu has already positioned Abia North favourably through quality representation and seniority in the National Assembly.

“Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu has been doing an outstanding job in the Senate, bringing meaningful projects and empowerment to our zone. His legislative experience and seniority make him a strong contender for principal positions, including the Senate Presidency, which would be a game-changer for our people,” Okocha stated.the skill acquisition centre in Abiriba and eventually rose to the position of Deputy Governor.

MEANWHILE, the United Abia Artists and Patriots (UAAP) has embarked on a statewide campaign for continuous voter registration, urging Abians to join “Abia Rise, ” which is Otti’s foremost political structure.

Speaking to newsmen, the UAAP President, Dr Osita Offor, popularly known as The Ultimate Commander, emphasised that it is time for Abians to reciprocate the good works of the governor by securing their voter cards ahead of the 2027 general election.

He described the voter card as the only power every Abian has to say “thank you” to the governor for the ongoing transformation in the state. “We are calling on all supporters of the governor, and, indeed, every Abian who believes in the new Abia, to join ‘Abia Rise’ and ensure that everybody is counted in this movement,” Offor said.