|By Chinwendu Nwani
The lawmaker representing Ideato Federal Constituency in the National Assembly, Ikenga Ugochinyere, has formally announced his exit from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), citing deep-seated internal crises and what he described as deliberate efforts by powerful interests to cripple the party.
Ugochinyere disclosed his decision while addressing constituents who paid him a Christmas solidarity visit at his residence in Akokwa, Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State. He accused a few individuals within the PDP of running the party as a personal enterprise and insisting on having their way at all costs.
According to the lawmaker, the internal damage inflicted on the PDP since the 2023 general elections has reached an irredeemable level, arguing that remaining in the party would amount to self-deception. He said his efforts to stabilize the party were repeatedly frustrated by actors allegedly bent on destroying it from within.
Ugochinyere specifically alleged that the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, and his allies orchestrated the party’s crisis by forcefully installing Umar Damagum and Samuel Anyanwu into the PDP’s national leadership, in violation of established party procedures.
He disclosed that he is currently consulting widely with prominent politicians and groups across the country and will, in due course, publicly announce the political platform he intends to join. He urged his supporters to remain calm and steadfast as consultations continue.
Reaffirming his commitment to his legislative duties, Ugochinyere assured constituents of sustained and effective representation, stressing that all communities in Ideato Nation would continue to benefit from ongoing and future projects. He explained that projects would only be commissioned after full completion and public use, allowing beneficiaries to assess their durability before formal unveiling.
On developments in Imo State politics, the lawmaker criticized the state government for allegedly attempting to block him from meeting with his constituents. He described the sealing of venues planned for his reception in Ideato South as “infantile” and politically motivated.
Ugochinyere alleged that authorities cited land disputes and bans on events in government facilities as excuses to frustrate the gatherings, noting that the meetings eventually held at private residences due to popular support. He insisted that such actions would not diminish the bond between him and his constituents.
He accused the state government of unnecessarily heating up the political atmosphere, attributing the move to fear over his growing popularity. Recalling events surrounding previous elections, Ugochinyere warned against a return to violence and intimidation, stressing that his supporters would not be provoked.
The lawmaker called on the Federal Government, the Inspector General of Police, the National Security Adviser, and other security chiefs to closely monitor developments in Imo State and caution the state government against actions that could escalate insecurity.
