Non-Performing Legislators Defecting to APC for Protection – APGA

The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has described the recent defections of Hon. Joseph Nwobashi representing Ezza North/Ishielu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives and Hon. Kevin Kenechukwu Okeh (Kenok) representing Ezza North East State Constituency to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a strategic move to avoid being held accountable by APGA supporters for their ineffectiveness in office.

In a strong statement, the Ebonyi State APGA chapter reminded the defectors that they still hold mandates under the party that facilitated their election victories, unless officially declared otherwise.
The party characterized their departure as a welcome development, noting that it presents an opportunity for genuine politicians to emerge and deliver the democratic dividends that the defectors allegedly failed to provide.

According to APGA, despite receiving billions of naira in allocations for constituency projects from both state and federal governments, the lawmakers failed to translate these funds into tangible benefits for their constituents. Their defection to the APC, the party alleged, is a calculated effort to shield themselves from scrutiny and public inquiry concerning these unaccounted funds.

The party further accused the lawmakers of consistent disloyalty, asserting that they had long disregarded and undermined the very political platform that brought them to power.
In a statement issued by the Media Director of APGA’s Ebonyi State chapter, Comrade Chris Emmanuel, and made available to journalists in Abakaliki on June 15, 2025, the party stated that both lawmakers had treated APGA as insignificant, despite benefiting from its structure and grassroots support.

The party leadership emphasized that since taking office, the two legislators have shown not only apathy but also blatant disregard for the electorate—voters who, under difficult circumstances, worked tirelessly to secure their electoral victories.

Highlighting that the defectors had not fulfilled their financial obligations to the party, including outstanding dues and levies, the Chairman of the APGA Ebonyi State chapter, Hon. Chukwudi Nwankwo, said the party would make its official position known after consultations with relevant stakeholders.
He also expressed puzzlement over the timing and rationale for the defections, particularly when APGA is not experiencing any internal crisis at either the state or national level.

While clarifying that the party has no intention of coercing the lawmakers to remain, Hon. Nwankwo reiterated that, until formally denounced, they continue to represent APGA in their respective constituencies.
He assured party members and the public that further deliberations would guide the party’s next steps and would be communicated openly.

“APGA is a united family and a resilient political institution that cannot be easily broken. The exit of a few individuals—even officeholders—does not weaken our foundation. Our leadership in Ezza North/Ishielu and Ezza North East State Constituency remains strong, resilient, and unshakeable. In due time, the public will come to understand the true motives and consequences of these defections,” Hon. Nwankwo stated.