By Chidinma Kalu
Former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Bishop Kennedy Azubuike Njoku, has officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State.
Rt. Hon. Njoku, who represented Osisioma Ngwa North State Constituency in the 7th Assembly, stepped down as Speaker following a PDP compromise that allowed Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji, the son of Abia’s former governor, to take over the role.
Speaking to supporters at his residence in Mbutu Nta village, Osisioma Local Government Area, Njoku explained his reasons for leaving the PDP. “My decision to leave the PDP was made after extensive consultations with constituents and stakeholders across the state, I am grateful to the PDP for the opportunities they provided me and wish them well in their future endeavors.” he said
He called on his supporters to join him in the APC, emphasizing the importance of hard work. “Only those ready to work hard would be rewarded,” Njoku stated, quoting the Igbo adage, ‘Onye ruo, ya erie’ (He who works, eats).
The former Speaker expressed gratitude to the people of Osisioma Ngwa North, Osisioma Ngwa LGA, and Abia State for their unwavering support. He assured them that his move to the APC was aimed at ensuring a brighter future for the local government area and the state.
Prominent stakeholders rallied behind Njoku’s decision. Comr. Odimegwu Aruru, Chief of Staff to the Bishop Campaign Organization, commended the move, while Comr. Emmanuel Nduagu, former president of the Osisioma Ngwa Youth Congress, and Hon. Austin Uruakpa, former leader of the Osisioma Ngwa Legislative Council, expressed full support.
They urged Njoku’s supporters to obtain APC membership cards from their wards, describing the move as a sign of hope for the masses.
In a vote of thanks, Comr. Oliver Christian, a youth leader from Isiala Osokwa Ward 6, praised Njoku’s decision. “We pledge our full support and pray for God’s blessings on you and your supporters,” Christian said.
The defection marks a significant political shift in Abia State as the APC seeks to strengthen its presence in the region.
