CAJETAN DUKE
In a momentous event reminiscent of the triumphant entry of our Lord Jesus Christ into Jerusalem, the Action People’s Party (APP) and the good people of Imo State witnessed the official defection of Rt. Hon. Barr. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere—the pride of Ideato nation and a distinguished son of Imo State—from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to our great party on Wednesday, January 7, 2026.
This landmark occasion, held at St. Peter’s Field, Akokwa in Ideato North Local Government Area of Imo State, marks the end of his PDP membership and the beginning of a new era of progressive politics with the Action People’s Party (APP).
Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere, a vibrant, cerebral, and upwardly mobile lawmaker in the 10th National Assembly, has long been recognized as one of Nigeria’s most visible and effective parliamentarians. His defection to APP represents the biggest political catch in recent Imo history, signaling a decisive shift toward a platform committed to genuine democratic ideals. The event drew widespread attention and underscored the growing momentum of APP as an emerging political force in Imo State.
On hand to receive him were the national leadership of APP, led by our National Chairman, Barr. Uchenna Nnadi. Playing host were members of the Imo State Interim Executive Committee, led by Hon. Ernest Njesi, who ensured the seamless integration of Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere into the party. Their presence highlighted the unity and organizational strength of APP at both national and state levels.
Also gracing the occasion was the state leader of APP and our governorship hopeful, Mazi Chima Matthew Amadi, alongside dedicated members of The Mazi Organization (TMO), prominent among whom were Hon. Henry Onwukwe and Rt. Hon. Michael Crown Njoku.
The event attracted well-meaning Nigerians from across the country, including the National President of the Ohanaeze Youth Council, Mazi Igboayaka O. Igboayaka, and his counterpart from the Arewa Consultative Youth Movement, Kabiru Yusuf. Their presence symbolized the national resonance of Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere’s move and APP’s appeal as a unifying political platform that transcends ethnic and regional divides.
In his welcoming address, National Chairman Barr. Uchenna Nnamdi described the defection as Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere’s official homecoming to his true political family. “We extend our arms wide open to welcome Ikenga home,” he stated, emphasizing that APP is the natural abode for principled leaders committed to the people’s welfare. This heartfelt reception set a tone of celebration and solidarity.
Mazi Chima Matthew Amadi, APP’s governorship aspirant and state leader, hailed Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere as the most courageous and dogged political activist of this century. He praised Ugochinyere’s invaluable contributions to national political discourse, noting how they have shaped conversations and influenced policy directions. “His entry strengthens our resolve to deliver transformative governance in Imo State,” Amadi affirmed.
Addressing the crowd after his formal entry into APP, Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere expressed profound gratitude to his constituents for their uncommon and unalloyed solidarity. He credited their unwavering support as the pillar of his successful political journey and vowed to continue honoring their trust through dedicated service.
The Akokwa-born legal icon turned political activist explained that his choice of APP aligns perfectly with the yearnings and aspirations of the people. “We seek a platform that embodies our cherished democratic values and the ethos of fairness, justice, and equity,” he declared, highlighting APP’s commitment to these principles as the driving force behind his decision.
Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere did not mince words in critiquing his former party, accusing some PDP leaders of sabotage and inflicting self-induced political injuries that weakened the party from within. He portrayed his defection as a necessary step to escape such internal discord and join a vibrant, forward-looking movement like APP.
Reaffirming his dedication, Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere assured the people of Imo State and his Ideato North/South Federal Constituency of his unwavering commitment to their well-being through quality representation. He pledged to leverage his position in the National Assembly to advocate for policies that uplift communities and foster development.
Finally, Rt. Hon. Ugochinyere expressed confidence in APP’s readiness to oust the underperforming All Progressives Congress (APC) government in Imo State. “We are prepared to match and surpass their efforts, delivering the accountable and people-centered leadership that Imo deserves,” he concluded, igniting cheers from the assembled crowd and setting the stage for APP’s triumphant future.
APP… Oge Eruola!
Oge Eruola… Maka Odimma Ndị Imo!
Cajetan Duke, JP
State Publicity Secretary