Senator Kelvin Chukwu, who represents Enugu East Senatorial District in the National Assembly, has officially defected from the Labour Party (LP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). Chukwu, who was elected on the LP platform during the 2023 general elections, announced his decision during a town-hall meeting held in Amuri Community, Nkanu West Local Government Area on Thursday.

Explaining the reason for his defection, Chukwu cited the ongoing internal crisis and divisions within the Labour Party, saying the party has become deeply factionalised, which is negatively affecting its members and weakening its structure. He described the persistent conflict as a major reason he could no longer continue under the LP banner.

With his departure, the LP now has only one senator left in Enugu State, Senator Okey Ezea, who represents Enugu North Senatorial District.

Chukwu’s move to the APC is part of a larger trend. Previously, Prof Paul Nnamchi, who represents Enugu-East/Isi-Uzo Federal Constituency, also joined the APC. Other former LP lawmakers who have defected include Chimaobi Atu (Enugu North/South), Sunday Umehia (Udi/Ezeagu), Dennis Agbo (Igbo-Eze North/Udenu), and Mark Obetta (Nsukka/Igbo-Eze South).

In the 2023 elections, LP had a strong showing in Enugu State, winning seven out of eight House of Representatives seats, two senatorial seats, and a majority in the State Assembly. However, the party has since lost its grip on the State Assembly as defections continue to weaken its political dominance.