Onyebuchi Ememanka, the former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Governor Okezie Ikpeazu of Abia State, has announced his departure from his former principal’s camp, opting to align with Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party. Ememanka, a prominent figure during Ikpeazu’s tenure, had served as his official spokesman.

Ememanka’s decision to join Otti comes after a period of personal reflection and consultations. In a post on Facebook, he shared a photo with Governor Otti and explained his decision, stating, “Finally, after a series of meetings and deep personal reflection, I have made my decision. A time has come for me to choose a new path for Abia State’s future.”

“I have chosen to put Abia first and prioritise her sustainable development above all else,” Ememanka continued. “I have chosen Otti. I have chosen the Labour Party.”

Ememanka’s shift follows his resignation from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) just a week earlier. In his resignation letter, he expressed dissatisfaction with the party’s inability to address its recent setbacks or develop strategies for the future.

“Remaining in the PDP will make my vision a mirage,” he stated. “I will always be grateful to the party for the platform and cooperation I received while serving.”

Ememanka’s move is part of a broader trend of defections from Ikpeazu’s camp, signalling the decline of his political influence in the state. Several loyalists of the former governor have also left the PDP for other parties. Notable defectors include Anthony Agbazuere, Ikpeazu’s former Chief of Staff; Eze Chikamnayo, a former Commissioner for Information and Strategy; Chief Chimezie Okoronkwo, a former commissioner representing Abia in the Niger Delta Development Commission; and others, including former commissioners for Public Utilities, Environment, and Oil Producing Area Development, as well as a former chairman of ASOPADEC.