The ongoing leadership crisis within the Labour Party (LP) in Cross River State has taken another hit as Brian Odey, the lawmaker representing Yala State Constituency 1 in the House of Assembly, defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
His defection is seen as a significant blow to the already embattled party.
Over the weekend, Odey, along with several other defectors, was formally received into the APC at a grand event hosted by the party leadership.
The defection ceremony took place in Yahe Ward, Yala Local Government Area (LGA), where Odey officially joined the state’s ruling party.
The leadership crisis in the Labour Party, which has split into factions led by Ogar Osim and John Ushie, has continued to plague the party.
Despite the internal strife, both factions have informed the Cross River State Independent Electoral Commission (CROSIEC) of their readiness to field candidates for the upcoming council elections on October 25, 2024.
In addition to Odey’s defection, another lawmaker, Martins Achadu, who represents Yala State Constituency 2, also switched allegiance to the APC. Achadu was officially welcomed into the party at the Ijiraga Ward in Yala LGA.
The Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, who presided over the reception ceremony, hailed the defections as a strategic win for the APC.
He described both Odey and Achadu as seasoned lawmakers who are deeply committed to the development of their constituencies.
“Brian’s arrival is not only a personal joy for me, but it is also a victory for the APC.
His dedication and commitment to his constituents will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of our party,” Speaker Ayambem stated.
The defections have further strengthened the APC’s foothold in Cross River State, as the party continues to consolidate its position ahead of the upcoming elections.
For the Labour Party, however, this development represents another challenge in its struggle to regain stability amidst the ongoing leadership tussle.
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