In a political twist that could reshape party alignments ahead of 2027, Ambassador Peter Chiju Kazubike, popularly known as Onyu Udo Nuzoakowe, has led 25,000 members of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) from across 184 wards in Abia State to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP).
The mainstream faction of APGA in Abia State submitted a formal letter to the National Chairman of the SDP, Alhaji Shehu Musa Gabam, pledging allegiance to the party and offering to assume leadership responsibilities within the state.
Citing the “iconic leadership” of Alhaji Gabam and the growing national appeal of the SDP, the defectors expressed confidence that their decision would “enhance the fortunes and successes of the party” in Abia and contribute to nationwide progress.
“Our structure is active across the 184 wards and 17 local government areas of Abia State, and we are prepared to collapse our existing framework into that of the SDP,” the letter read.
The group also made several requests to aid the smooth transition, including a formal letter of recognition to INEC, 25,000 membership cards, party flags, and other materials to support the party’s functionality in the state.
Speaking during a press briefing at the SDP national headquarters, Ambassador Kazubike cited a breakdown in internal democracy and procedural integrity within APGA as the main reason for their decision to leave.
“The reason is quite simple,” he said. “APGA lacks internal democracy and due process. The party has been hijacked by individuals who now act against the constitution of the party. We cannot continue in a system that disregards fairness and transparency.”
Kazubike’s faction joins the growing list of political actors migrating to the SDP, a party many observers say is gaining quiet but significant momentum across the country.
Asked how the defectors plan to integrate with existing SDP structures in the state, Ambassador Kazubike affirmed their commitment to democratic synergy.
“We are democratically charged. We understand what it means to work with existing structures. We will harmonize and work together to grow the party,” he said.
The defection is considered one of the most substantial party shifts in the state in recent years, both in scale and political symbolism. With 25,000 grassroots members crossing over, the SDP is poised to gain strong traction ahead of future elections in Abia.
This move adds to growing speculation that the SDP is fast becoming a third-force alternative, especially among party faithfuls dissatisfied with the state of internal affairs in older political platforms.
Party sources within the SDP say more waves of defections are expected in the coming weeks.
This development is seen by analysts as a strategic win for the SDP in the South-East region, further positioning it as a growing political force ahead of future elections.
