Alex Ikwechegh, the federal lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, has officially defected from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the Labour Party (LP).

Ikwechegh announced his decision following a closed-door meeting with Abia State Governor Alex Otti at the governor’s residence in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.

During the meeting, Ikwechegh said he visited Governor Otti to seek his blessings as the Labour Party’s national leader and to formally confirm his membership in the party.

“I have received my Labour Party card as a new member, and I’m excited to contribute to the party’s progressive agenda,” he stated.

The lawmaker addressed speculations linking his recent meeting with President Bola Tinubu to a possible defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He clarified that his attendance at the Iftar event hosted by the President should not be misinterpreted as a political shift.

“Politics is about interests. My decision is guided by alignment with LP’s ideology and the positive transformation I have observed under Governor Otti,” Ikwechegh added.

Ikwechegh emphasized his admiration for Governor Otti’s results-oriented leadership and the visible development projects across Abia State.

He further praised the Labour Party’s leadership under Senator Nenadi Usman and Senator Darlington Nwokocha, highlighting the party as a platform for progressive-minded politicians.

Ginger Onwusibe, Labour Party caucus leader in the National Assembly, welcomed Ikwechegh, describing his defection as a strategic gain for the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Onwusibe likened the move to “a football club signing a talented player” and expressed confidence that Ikwechegh would make meaningful contributions in the National Assembly.

Ikwechegh urged citizens to register with the Labour Party, noting that an online registration link would soon be available, reinforcing the party’s vision for stronger democratic participation and accountability.