The Labour Party in Enugu State has suffered yet another setback following the defection of Senator Kelvin Chukwu, who represents Enugu East Senatorial District, to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His decision adds to the growing wave of defections that has weakened the party in the state.
Senator Chukwu, who made the announcement during a town hall meeting in his hometown, Amuri, Nkanu West Local Government Area, said the endless crisis and internal divisions within the Labour Party forced him to leave. He explained that the party’s factional battles have been hurting its members and making it difficult to function effectively.
During the event, Chukwu thanked his constituents for their support since he assumed office and promised not to disappoint them. To back his words with action, he donated a Toyota Siena minivan and security gadgets to local vigilante groups to help improve security in the community.
The defection was welcomed by Dr. Ben Nwoye, former APC state chairman, who described the move as a smart political step that would benefit both Chukwu and his constituents. He urged others to follow suit as the APC continues to strengthen its base in Enugu.
Chukwu is not the first Labour Party lawmaker in Enugu to switch allegiance. Others, including Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu and Sunday Umehia, have also defected to the APC, citing the same leadership tussles and prolonged crisis within the party. The wave of defections has left many party loyalists questioning Labour Party’s direction and its ability to remain a strong political force in the state.
