In a significant political development in Abia State, the former Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bishop Kennedy Azubuike Njoku, has officially parted ways with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and declared his allegiance to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The announcement, made during a gathering at his hometown, Mbutu Nta village in Osisioma Local Government Area, marks a pivotal shift in the state’s political landscape. Njoku cited extensive consultations with stakeholders and constituents as the foundation of his decision.
“I want to thank the PDP for the platform and opportunities they gave me,” Njoku said to a crowd of supporters. “However, this is the time for us to align with a vision that will secure a brighter future for Osisioma Ngwa and Abia State.”
Njoku’s political journey has been a rollercoaster of influence and compromise. Representing Osisioma Ngwa North State Constituency in the 7th Assembly, he briefly held the Speaker’s gavel before stepping down to make way for Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji. This compromise was a strategic move by the PDP to appease key political figures, including Orji’s father, former Governor Theodore Orji.
The former Speaker’s defection to the APC underscores shifting loyalties and alliances in Abia State politics, with the 2027 general elections already casting a long shadow. Njoku’s move is seen as both a personal political recalibration and a strategic response to his supporters’ demands.
“I call on everyone who believes in this vision to join me in the APC,” he urged. Quoting the Igbo adage, “Onye ruo, ya erie” (He who works, eats), Njoku emphasized that hard work and dedication would be rewarded in his new political fold.
Backing from Political Heavyweights
Njoku’s defection has received endorsement from notable political stakeholders and youth leaders in Osisioma Ngwa. Comrade Odimegwu Aruru, Chief of Staff to the Bishop Campaign Organization, lauded Njoku’s decision as “courageous and timely,” adding that it heralds hope for the people of the state.
Former President of the Osisioma Ngwa Youth Congress, Comrade Emmanuel Nduagu, also weighed in, describing the move as a “much-needed fresh start for Abia politics.” He called on Njoku’s supporters to immediately secure APC membership cards in preparation for a collective effort toward change.
“We see this as a defining moment,” said Nduagu. “This decision is not just about politics but about steering Abia toward a brighter and more inclusive future.”
Similarly, Hon. Austin Uruakpa, a former leader of the Osisioma Ngwa Legislative Council, stressed that Njoku’s shift to the APC symbolized a break from the old order. “This is a bold step that will challenge the status quo in Abia politics,” Uruakpa remarked.
A Test for APC in Abia
Njoku’s defection is expected to test the strength and cohesion of the APC in Abia State, a region traditionally dominated by the PDP. Analysts believe that Njoku’s move could trigger a wave of defections, as disgruntled members of the PDP seek alternative platforms.
“It’s not just about Njoku,” said political analyst Chijioke Anozie. “This is a litmus test for the APC’s ability to absorb high-profile defectors and leverage their influence ahead of the next election cycle.”
Njoku’s supporters have rallied around him, portraying the defection as a path toward revitalizing Osisioma Ngwa North and addressing long-standing developmental challenges. Comrade Oliver Christian, a youth leader from Isiala Osokwa Ward 6, expressed optimism, pledging unwavering support for Njoku.
“We are behind Rt. Hon. Kennedy Njoku 100%. His leadership has always been about the people, and we believe that this move to the APC will bring about meaningful progress,” Christian said during the event.
The Road Ahead
For Njoku, the journey from PDP stalwart to APC loyalist is just the beginning of a new chapter. While he has expressed gratitude to the PDP, his message to the people is clear: the future lies with the APC.
“It’s not enough to complain about the challenges we face,” he stated. “We must take action and work hard to bring about the change we desire.”
His defection has sparked discussions across Abia State, with political observers closely monitoring the implications. The PDP, which has held sway in Abia for decades, now faces the challenge of retaining its dominance amid a growing wave of defections.
