Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, has officially welcomed former Deputy Governor, Ude Okochukwu, to the Labour Party, describing his defection as a “bold and weighty political move”.
Okochukwu, who recently resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), joined the Labour Party alongside many PDP faithful and his political structure, the Abia Vision Rangers.
Speaking at the grand reception in his hometown, Nkporo, Ohafia LGA, Governor Otti assured Okochukwu of fair treatment and equal opportunities within the Labour Party.
“This is a party that does not discriminate, there is no difference between him and some of us that joined earlier. As soon as you are a member of the party, you have equal rights and opportunities,” Otti said.
The Governor described Okochukwu as a long-standing friend who consistently demonstrated fairness and respect, even when they were in opposing political camps.
“Rt. Honourable Ude Okochukwu has been my friend and my brother even when we were in different camps. He is one official of the government that will give you your dues and your respect, even as deputy governor,” he said.
Otti revealed that Okochukwu had privately pledged his support during the 2023 elections despite remaining in the PDP at the time.
The Governor also announced that the Itu Nkporo Road had been awarded for reconstruction, stressing that Abians are entitled to good roads.
In his remarks, Okochukwu said his decision to abandon the PDP was informed by Governor Otti’s transformational leadership in the State.
“I have been watching Governor Otti’s unprecedented reforms and people-focused development initiatives in less than two years in office, and I am impressed,” Okochukwu said.
He praised the Governor for prioritizing infrastructure and addressing the long-neglected Umuahia-Uzuakoli-Akara-Ohafia road project.
Okochukwu assured that his supporters would align fully with the Labour Party under Governor Otti’s leadership.
“We are excited to join the Labour Party and work with Governor Otti to take Abia State to the next level,” he said.
