Chris Okewulonu, a former Chief of Staff to ex-governor Emeka Ihedioha of Imo State, and Chuma Nnaji, Ihedioha’s former deputy gubernatorial candidate, switched to the All Progressives Congress (APC) on Friday, bringing along their supporters.
At the APC headquarters in Owerri, the state capital, Okewulonu addressed the party members and reflected on his recent resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and its Board of Trustees.
“A few months ago, I resigned from both the PDP and its Board of Trustees,” Okewulonu noted. “My choice to leave was the result of significant self-reflection and extensive discussions with my family, political peers, and supporters.”
He explained his departure was based on his belief that the core values of the PDP, which initially attracted him, had been steadily diminished and ultimately lost for good.
During his hiatus from politics, Okewulonu critically assessed the political situation in Imo State.
“In light of the ongoing divisions within the parties that are expected to be the main opposition in Nigeria, I questioned whether I could continue to be part of an ineffective opposition while potentially contributing to meaningful change for my people,” he added.
Regarding Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership, Okewulonu acknowledged the positive impact of his administration.
“After five years, I firmly believe that the 3R administration led by Senator Hope Uzodimma has genuinely aimed to benefit the people of Imo State and has worked hard to deliver effective governance,” he stated, referencing the notable infrastructure projects and capacity-building initiatives undertaken by the governor.
Governor Uzodimma welcomed the new members, underscoring the importance of their switch.
“The APC used to be viewed as an outsider due to past missteps. Today, it is the only party that truly seeks to benefit Imo citizens,” Uzodimma remarked, indicating that the defectors illustrate APC’s rising prominence in the state.
He emphasized that those genuinely invested in the state’s progress were choosing to align with the APC, asserting, “If we fail to address our people’s issues, history will judge us harshly.”
Uzodimma also commended Okewulonu and Nnaji’s decision to join APC, comparing it to recruiting top sports talents.
“Conscience is a wound that can only be healed by truth. I appreciate Okewulonu and Chuma Nnaji for becoming part of our party. We have now attracted the elite of our political landscape,” he added.
Nnaji, a former Deputy Speaker of the Imo State House of Assembly, expressed his faith in APC’s leadership and noted their sizeable following. “We didn’t come by ourselves; we have over 3,000 supporters joining us,” he said.
Additionally, other prominent defectors included Paschal Obi, a former member of the House of Representatives from Ideato South, and Tochukwu Okere, who represents the Owerri Federal Constituency, among other significant political figures.
