A group of prominent Labour Party leaders in Ebonyi has defected to the All Progressives Congress, declaring support for Governor Francis Nwifuru.

The group attributed its decision to the governor’s good performance in office.

The defectors, led by the LP state secretary and coordinator of the Labour Movement in Ebonyi, Igiri Innocent, announced their defection during a meeting at the APC State Secretariat in Abakaliki on Wednesday.

They were received by the APC state chairman, Okoro Emegha.

Mr Emegha described the defection as a major boost for the ruling party, adding that the new members voluntarily joined the APC after assessing the performance of Mr Nwifuru’s administration in infrastructure, peace-building and good governance.

He said no one compelled the former LP members to leave their party, adding that their decision reflected growing public confidence in the APC-led government.

Mr Emegha expressed optimism that the new members would strengthen the party’s grassroots structure and urged them to remain committed to its ideals.

Mr Igiri said the group placed the overall interest of Ebonyi above partisan politics, adding that Mr Nwifuru’s leadership and policies motivated them to support the administration.

Mr Igiri also unveiled a political mobilisation platform, ‘FON All the Way’, describing it as a network of experienced grassroots politicians dedicated to mobilising support for the APC and Nwifuru across the state.

He further said that members of the platform played active roles during the 2023 general election.

Also speaking, the deputy national leader (South-East) of the movement, Ijeoma Chukwu, commended the governor for creating an atmosphere that encouraged residents and investors to carry out their activities without fear.

Mr Chukwu urged other political stakeholders to prioritise Ebonyi’s interest over party affiliation by supporting initiatives that promote peace, economic growth and sustainable development.

(NAN)