By Ogiewonyi Osazuwa
In a shocking political turn of events, Barrister Olumide Akpata, the Labour Party’s candidate, has lost his Chairman in Ugu Ward, Mr. Dickson Eguasi, to the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). This defection is a striking blow to Akpata’s campaign in the Orhionmwon Local Government Area.
The defection of Eguasi, who was the Labour Party’s Ugu Ward Chairman, was announced yesterday in Umoghun-Nokhua, where he was officially received into the PDP. This move is seen as a major plus to the PDP’s chances in the upcoming elections.
In a related development, the Chairman of the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) in Ugu Ward, Mr. Charles Oriakhi, has also defected to the PDP. Oriakhi cited the PDP’s ability to sustain the current government’s developmental strides as the reason for his defection.
The PDP has continued to gain momentum in the Orhionmwon Local Government Area, as several All Progressives Congress (APC) stalwarts have defected to the party. Mr. Henry Abu who until his defection, APC’s Organizing Secretary, Mr. Lugard Ozigbo, Mr. Aghatise Frank, and Madam Florence Owie are among those who have joined the PDP.
The defectors were officially received into the PDP by the Council Chairman, Hon Newman Ugiagbe, who was accompanied by other party leaders. Ambassador Wesley Asoro, Hon. Imade Vincent, Deacon Jonathan Okunbor, and Hon. Blessed Edughaen were among those present at the reception.
Ugiagbe welcomed the defectors, describing their decision as a “big plus” for the PDP. He stated that their move would be remembered positively by posterity, as they have chosen to align themselves with a party that represents good governance and respect for the rule of law.
The PDP’s gubernatorial ticket, featuring Asue Ighodalo and Osarodion Ogie, was highlighted as a key factor in the defectors’ decision. Ugiagbe emphasized that this ticket represents a commitment to education, healthcare, tourism, and agricultural revolution.
Ugu Ward Leaders, including the Councilor representing the Ward, Hon. Goodluck Osama Ogbeide, Comrade Osagiaro Atiemwen, Hon. Peter Abusonmwan, Hon. Godwin Osalaye, Mr. Rufus Ehisuehi, Mr. Ekunwe Johnson, estwhile Secretary to Orhionmwon Local Government Council, Hon. Friday Osaigbovo were among those that attended the event. This mass defection is a clear indication of the PDP’s growing popularity in the area.
