Felix Igboke, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Ebonyi State Commissioner for Project Monitoring, has resigned his position and defected to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Mr Igboke, who officially announced his defection on Sunday during a PDP gathering attended by party leaders, executives, and supporters in Isu, Onicha Local Government Area of the state, said he defected with more than 10,000 supporters ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He described his return to the PDP as a homecoming, noting that his political journey began with the party.

Mr Igboke said his decision was informed by the need to align with a political platform capable of advancing the interests of the people and promoting inclusive development in the state.

“I am happy to return to the political platform that built me. I served as a councillor, development centre coordinator, and chairman of Onicha Local Government Area under the same party before I joined the APC.

“I am grateful to the PDP family in Ebonyi State, especially the party’s governorship candidate, Chief Ifeanyi Chukwuma-Odii, the incoming governor,” he said.

Chukwuma Igwe, the state chairman of the PDP who welcomed the defectors, described Igboke’s return to the party as a major boost to its fortunes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Mr Igwe said the PDP had regained its strength across the state and was well-positioned to reclaim power in the next election cycle.

According to him, the influx of thousands of supporters into the party demonstrates growing public confidence in the PDP and its leadership.

Also speaking, Eni-Uduma Chima, the PDP candidate for the Afikpo/Edda Federal Constituency seat in 2027, said the party was experiencing rapid growth across Ebonyi.

Mr Chima expressed optimism that the increasing support base would translate into electoral victories for the PDP in future elections.

He urged party members to remain united and committed to strengthening the party’s structures at the grassroots level.

The event attracted party faithful, community leaders, and supporters from various parts of the state, who pledged their continued support for the PDP. 

(NAN)