The Labour Party in Enugu State has suffered a setback as Senator Kelvin Chukwu, representing Enugu East Senatorial District, announced his defection to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
This move comes on the heels of similar defections by other elected Labour Party members in the state.
According to Senator Chukwu, the protracted crisis rocking the Labour Party, which has led to its fractionalisation, informed his decision to quit the party.
“The protracted crisis rocking the LP, which has led to its fractionalisation, a development that is seriously affecting its members,” Chukwu stated, adding that the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is also facing significant challenges.
Declaring his intention during a town hall meeting in Amuri Community, Nkanu West Local Government Area, where he hails from, on Thursday, Chukwu expressed appreciation to the people and his senatorial zone for their support since he assumed office at the National Assembly.
He promised not to let them down and donated a Toyota Siena minivan and security gadgets to Community Vigilante groups to boost local security.
Dr. Ben Nwoye, immediate past state Chairman of the APC, who also attended the meeting, praised Senator Chukwu’s decision, describing it as “a wise political decision that would be of immense benefit to the lawmaker and his constituents.”
This defection adds to the growing list of Labour Party members who have jumped ship to other parties, including the APC and PDP.
Other lawmakers from Enugu State who defected to the APC include Hon. Chimaobi Sam Atu and Sunday Umehia, who cited similar reasons for their departure, including the elongated crisis and leadership tussles within the Labour Party.
These defections underscore the challenges facing the Labour Party in Enugu State, with many members questioning the party’s direction and leadership.