Hon. Akaliro Kelechi Anderson, the elected representative for Umuahia North State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, has formally switched allegiance from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the Labour Party (LP), marking a significant setback for the already fragmented opposition in the state.
In a resignation letter submitted to the APC chairman of Umuahia North Local Government Area, Hon. Akaliro cited persistent internal conflicts, factional disputes, and the breakdown of unified leadership within the APC in Abia State as the primary reasons for his departure.
Reports indicate that Hon. Akaliro, who serves as the chairman of the House Committee on Public Petitions and Judiciary, was the sole APC member elected to the State Assembly in the 2023 elections. He expressed frustration over being marginalized by his party despite holding a legislative mandate.
He stated, “Since my swearing-in, I have not received any invitation-formal or informal-from the APC in Abia for meetings or party activities, effectively sidelining my role and mandate.”
Hon. Akaliro also condemned the ongoing cycle of suspensions and counter-suspensions among party officials at ward and local government levels, describing this turmoil as evidence of deep-seated disunity within the party.
Following extensive consultations with his constituents and political allies, the lawmaker announced his decision to join Governor Alex Otti’s Labour Party-led administration, which he lauded as progressive and focused on development.
Speaking to the press after his resignation from the APC, Hon. Akaliro, affectionately known as “The man with excess grace,” affirmed his commitment to Governor Otti’s leadership.
He remarked, “I have come to a realization. I have been observing His Excellency Dr. Alex Choma-Otti to understand his vision and direction. Today, I am proud to align myself with him and the Labour Party because of the tangible progress he has made for our state.
“Abia is excelling in numerous areas, with his presence felt in every corner of the state. I am proud to be an Abian. Initially, I thought he was just a banker, but I have since discovered he is a highly capable administrator.
“He arrived ready to serve, and I am genuinely pleased. My constituents share this excitement about joining this forward-moving journey. I am confident he is steering us toward a prosperous future, and Abia will continue to thrive under his leadership.”
Hon. Akaliro highlighted Governor Otti’s accomplishments in education, infrastructure, and social welfare, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to tangible development.
“In education and infrastructure, including housing and smart schools, his impact is visible throughout Abia State. Even the most indifferent observer can see that he came prepared and is executing his duties flawlessly,” he noted.
He added that serving as an opposition member had become increasingly challenging due to Governor Otti’s consistent fulfillment of campaign promises.
“Opposing him became difficult because whenever I considered criticism, he would promptly deliver on his commitments. This left me with no alternative but to join him, as I believe he is the best person for this role. No one else can match his effectiveness,” he affirmed.
Declaring his new political affiliation, Hon. Akaliro stated, “I hereby officially identify as Honourable Barrister Anderson Kelechi Akaliro, the man with excess grace, proudly representing the people of Umuahia North State Constituency under the Labour Party banner.”
This defection further diminishes the APC’s presence in Abia State while strengthening the Labour Party’s growing influence under Governor Otti’s leadership.
