Hon. Ikenga Ugochinyere, a member of the House of Representatives representing the Ideato federal constituency of Imo State, recently made headlines with his official declaration of membership for the Action Peoples Party (APP), transitioning from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The significant announcement took place on Wednesday in Akokwa, Ideato North local government area of Imo State, where the lawmaker also voiced strong concerns regarding the conduct of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Barr. Nyesom Wike.

During his declaration, Ugochinyere called upon President Bola Tinubu to intervene and caution Minister Wike against insulting the revered leader of the Igbo nation, Senator John Azuta-Mbata, who serves as the President General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo Worldwide. Ugochinyere vehemently stated that while Ndigbo might tolerate various issues, disrespecting their serving President General would not be accepted. He characterized Wike's verbal attacks as a declaration of hostilities against the Igbo nation, emphasizing that such actions, if unchecked, would undermine the President's standing. The lawmaker further suggested that Wike's aggressive stance stems from a personal ambition to secure a third term as governor, leading him to attack anyone not supporting his agenda, including the esteemed Ohanaeze Ndigbo President.

Explaining his departure from the PDP, Ugochinyere cited a history of “unending battles” since he joined the party, alleging that these attacks were sponsored by the PDP itself. He recounted constant legal challenges to retain his seat, a seat which the party had not won for over fifteen years until his victory. He expressed unwillingness to endure further such ordeals, especially after some of his own party members testified against him in tribunals. Ugochinyere also highlighted internal party anomalies, such as the arbitrary replacement of state party executives with members of another party, exemplified by one Austin Nwachukwu. He celebrated his admission into the APP by its National Chairman, Bar Uche Nnadi, noting that the APP had now secured its first seat in the Federal Parliament, with a second expected soon.

Beyond his party transition and criticism of Wike, Hon. Ugochinyere also issued a stern warning against any form of electoral malpractice in the upcoming general elections, specifically in Ideato and across Imo State. He urged his constituents to defend their right to choose “at all cost,” declaring that this time, those attempting to manipulate elections would be the ones to suffer consequences. He asserted that he and his people would resist any attempt to falsify or announce fraudulent results, regardless of the force deployed.

Adding to the party’s vision, Chief Chima Amadi, the APP Imo Governorship hopeful, articulated the party’s commitment to initiating a “revolution” aimed at eradicating insecurity and poverty, while restoring security, human dignity, good roads, and wealth to the people. Amadi pledged to work alongside Ugochinyere to achieve these goals, even at personal discomfort. Furthermore, he appealed to the Inspector General of Police to sanction law enforcement officers involved in a raid on his house in 2023, citing video evidence to identify the culprits.

The event garnered significant attendance from various political figures, including the President General of Ohanaeze Youth Council and his Arewa Youths counterpart, underscoring the broad interest in Ugochinyere’s political realignment and the APP’s growing influence.