Defection Deepens Crisis Within Opposition Party as Lawmaker Cites Internal Turmoil
A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the Action Peoples Party (APP), dealing another blow to the opposition party amid its lingering internal crisis.
Ugochinyere, who represents Ideato North and South Federal Constituency of Imo State, announced his defection on the floor of the House during plenary on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
The lawmaker’s exit is widely viewed as a consequence of the deepening leadership and factional disputes within the PDP, particularly in Imo State and at the national level. In recent months, Ugochinyere had been embroiled in controversies with party leaders, including attempts by some ward and local government officials to expel him over alleged anti-party activities.
However, the PDP national leadership had earlier nullified the expulsion attempts, describing them as unconstitutional and lacking due process.
Ugochinyere’s defection further weakens the PDP’s strength in the House of Representatives, especially at a time when the party is struggling to maintain cohesion ahead of future electoral contests.
On the other hand, the Action Peoples Party (APP) has described the development as a major boost, with party leaders welcoming the lawmaker into their fold and expressing optimism that his entry would strengthen the party’s presence in Imo State and nationally.
Hon. Ugochinyere is known as a vocal and influential legislator, often taking strong positions on governance, accountability, and party affairs. His defection is expected to reshape political alignments in Imo State and could encourage further defections from the PDP if internal disputes persist.
The move adds to the growing wave of defections rocking Nigeria’s political landscape, as lawmakers continue to realign amid leadership struggles, party disputes, and preparations for future elections.
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