The Labour Party, LP, in Cross River State has suffered a major setback as two of its lawmakers, Brian Odey and Martins Achadu, defected to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
Odey, who represents Yala Constituency 1 in the State House of Assembly, and Achadu, representing Yala Constituency 2, were officially welcomed into the APC over the weekend.
The defections took place in separate events, with Odey joining the APC at Yahe Ward, Yala Local Government Area, while Achadu switched allegiance at Ijiraga Ward.
Their departure further weakens the LP, which has been plagued by internal leadership conflicts between factions led by Ogar Osim and John Ushie.
Despite the internal turmoil, both factions of the LP have expressed readiness to field candidates for the upcoming Council elections on October 25, 2024.
However, the loss of two key lawmakers raises concerns about the party’s strength heading into the elections.
At the event, Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, praised the decision of both lawmakers to join the APC, calling it a strategic move for the party. “Their dedication to their constituencies and experience will undoubtedly boost the party’s success,” Ayambem said.
Odey’s defection, in particular, was highlighted by the Speaker as a significant win for the APC, emphasizing his commitment to his constituents. The defections mark another blow to the embattled LP, which continues to struggle with internal divisions.
With the upcoming elections approaching, the impact of these defections on the LP’s chances remains uncertain.
