Otti’s aide Iheanyi Chinasa defects to APC ahead of 2027

Iheanyi Chinasa, who served as a liaison officer for Abia State Governor Alex Otti, has officially defected from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC). This announcement was made in a statement signed by Levinu Nwabughiogu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu.

Chinasa's defection is considered strategically important as it reflects a realignment of political forces in Abia State ahead of the 2027 general elections. His previous candidacy against Kalu for the Bend Federal Constituency seat in the 2023 general elections adds to the significance of this move.

Kalu welcomed Chinasa into the APC, emphasizing the party's commitment to strengthening its structure in the Southeast region. The defection is viewed as a high-profile entry into the APC, which aims to encourage more aspirants to join and remain committed to the party's future electoral ambitions.