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By Tracy Moses
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has been described as ‘beyond redemption’ by the Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) following the defection of Honourable Ikenga Ugochinyere to the Action People’s Party (APP). The move, CUPP said, was prompted by a prolonged internal crisis that has weakened the former ruling party and frustrated genuine reform efforts.
Ugochinyere formally announced his defection on Wednesday at a well-attended rally in Ideato Local Government Area of Imo State, drawing massive support from his constituents.
Reacting on Thursday, CUPP’s National Spokesperson, Comrade Mark Adebayo, described the lawmaker’s decision as courageous and strategically sound, noting that it came after years of trying to salvage the PDP from within.
In a statement, Adebayo, who is also the convener of the New Direction for Nigeria Movement, said: “Honourable Ikenga Ugochinyere exhausted every effort to reform the PDP, but the party had become a sinking ship. His decision to join the APP is both timely and commendable.”
He pointed to the overwhelming turnout at the defection rally as evidence of the lawmaker’s strong public support and the endorsement of his constituents for relocating their mandate to a more stable and democratic platform.
According to Adebayo, the PDP’s internal contradictions, leadership failures, and entrenched interests have made meaningful reform impossible, insisting that the party has gone beyond redemption.
He praised Ugochinyere’s political insight, resilience, and capacity to navigate Nigeria’s complex political landscape, noting that despite his youth, the lawmaker has consistently demonstrated commitment to democratic principles and social justice.
Adebayo added that Ugochinyere’s decision to join the APP places him in a party with strong internal democracy, consistency, and the potential to emerge as a rallying point for opposition politics in the country.
Recalling past threats to the lawmaker’s life, Adebayo said the enthusiasm of his supporters, who stood by him even during periods of intense political persecution, was evident once again during the public announcement of his defection.
He concluded by congratulating Ugochinyere, his family, and supporters, while expressing optimism that the move would strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process and advance good governance.