Rt. Hon. Bishop Kennedy Azubuike Njoku, former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, has officially announced his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State.
Njoku, who represented the Osisioma Ngwa North State Constituency in the 7th Assembly, previously stepped down as Speaker after the PDP facilitated a compromise that saw Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji, son of Abia’s former governor, assume the position.
Speaking at his residence in Mbutu Nta village, Osisioma Local Government Area, Njoku revealed that his decision to leave the PDP followed extensive consultations with his constituents and key stakeholders across Abia State.
“I am grateful to the PDP for the opportunities they provided me and wish them well in their future endeavors,” Njoku said. He encouraged his supporters to join him in the APC, emphasizing that the party offers better opportunities for those willing to work hard. He reinforced this with the Igbo proverb, “Onye ruo, ya erie” (He who works, eats), expressing his confidence in merit-based rewards within the APC.
Njoku’s defection has received significant backing from political figures and community leaders, including:
- Comr. Odimegwu Aruru, Chief of Staff to the Bishop Campaign Organization.
- Comr. Emmanuel Nduagu, former President of the Osisioma Ngwa Youth Congress.
- Hon. Austin Uruakpa, former leader of the Osisioma Ngwa Legislative Council.
The stakeholders called on Njoku’s supporters to register as APC members in their respective wards, describing the move as the beginning of a new era for the people of Osisioma Ngwa and Abia State.
Njoku reassured his supporters that his decision to join the APC was driven by a commitment to ensuring a brighter future for Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area and the state at large.
Youth leader Comr. Oliver Christian, representing Isiala Osokwa Ward 6, lauded Njoku’s courage, pledging unwavering support from the youth. He described the defection as a transformative step toward inclusive development.
The defection marks a significant political shift in Abia State, signaling growing momentum for the APC as it seeks to strengthen its influence in the region.
