Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, the lawmaker representing Ideato North and South Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, has officially dumped the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the Action People’s Party (APP), leading over 22,000 supporters in a sweeping political defection that has reshaped the political landscape of Imo State.
The defection was unveiled at a large political gathering in Ideato, where Ugochinyere announced his decision before party faithful, community leaders, and civil society representatives. The move signals a significant change in his political direction and reflects growing dissatisfaction among opposition figures over issues of electoral integrity, internal party democracy, and adherence to the rule of law.
Explaining his decision, the federal lawmaker said his alignment with the APP was based on the party’s stated commitment to democratic principles, accountability, and opposition to what he described as electoral malpractice and political repression.
“This movement goes beyond party affiliation,” Ugochinyere said. “It is about defending democracy against electoral banditry, judicial compromise, and state-backed oppression.”
Ugochinyere also renewed his call for international scrutiny of political and judicial practices in Imo State, alleging widespread impunity in electoral and governance processes. He revealed plans to submit petitions and supporting evidence to international institutions, including authorities in the United States, seeking investigations, sanctions, and accountability over alleged abuses.
According to him, he has been invited to present evidence before a United States Congress subcommittee focused on democratic governance in Africa. He said the materials to be presented would detail allegations of election manipulation, political violence, intimidation of judicial officers, and broader human rights concerns.
“Those who think they can undermine democracy and still enjoy the benefits of the global system are mistaken,” he warned. “A time will come when some will leave the country and never return.”
The lawmaker further demanded renewed investigations into cases of political violence in Imo State, including the attack on his life and the killing of his uncle, insisting that failure to prosecute perpetrators has only encouraged lawlessness.
“When crimes are ignored, impunity flourishes. Justice delayed has become justice denied, and that must change,” he said.
In another part of his speech, Ugochinyere expressed support for firm international action against leaders accused of eroding democratic norms, referencing recent global developments involving Venezuela. He argued that similar resolve should be applied in parts of Nigeria where, he claimed, elections no longer reflect the will of the people.
“Where elections have become rituals of fraud instead of expressions of popular choice, the international community must act,” he said.
Leaders of the Action People’s Party welcomed Ugochinyere and his supporters, describing the mass defection as a major boost to the party’s national relevance. They said his legislative experience and outspoken stance on governance would strengthen the APP’s role within Nigeria’s evolving opposition space.
Political analysts see the development as part of a wider realignment ahead of future elections, especially in states where election credibility and judicial outcomes have remained sources of controversy.
As he begins this new chapter, Ugochinyere has made it clear that his focus will extend beyond party politics to a sustained local and international campaign against what he describes as the steady erosion of democratic institutions in Nigeria.
