The Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has removed immediate past Deputy Governor, Sir Ude Oko Chukwu, from all official party platforms, including WhatsApp groups and internal communication channels. The move follows a recent closed-door meeting between Chukwu and Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party.
Chukwu’s removal, which also affected several of his allies across Abia North, is believed to be linked to reports of political realignments and his public endorsement of Governor Otti’s leadership and re-election ambition.
Although Chukwu insists the meeting was purely personal and not politically motivated, party sources allege he has been involved in anti-party activities. These include discreet mobilization efforts and discussions about defecting to the Labour Party—allegedly with a promise of securing the party’s Abia North senatorial ticket for 2027.
Among those also removed from PDP communication channels are Obike Mascot Imo (Bende), Barr. Olughu O. Kalu (Ohafia), Obinna Ekekwe (Isuikwuato), Fabian Nwankwo (Umunneochi), and John Okoro (Arochukwu)—some of whom are said to have already aligned with the Labour Party.
PDP State Chairman, Elder Amah Abraham, declined to provide specific reasons for the delistings but confirmed the party was undergoing a “strategic internal cleansing” ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“We will no longer condone sabotage disguised as loyalty,” Abraham said.
As the political landscape in Abia begins to shift, Chukwu’s quiet repositioning and the PDP’s swift response may mark the beginning of deeper fractures within the opposition party ahead of the next electoral cycle.
