Amidst swirling rumours, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Imo State is in a state of confusion as discussions heat up regarding the potential migration of former Governor Emeka Ihedioha to the Labour Party (LP).
Last week, members of Ihedioha’s political faction, the Rebuild Imo Organization, convened in Owerri, urging Ihedioha to sever ties with the PDP and join the Labour party.
Ihedioha has maintained a stoic silence since the rumours broke out.
Meanwhile, those in his inner circle continue to advocate for his departure from the PDP.
The PDP in Imo State remains deeply divided, with factions loyal to Ihedioha and Senator Samuel Anyanwu, engaged in a bitter struggle for dominance and influence.
Efforts at reconciliation have thus far proven futile, perpetuating the internal discord within the party.
Ihedioha distanced himself from the PDP’s involvement in the recent gubernatorial election, which saw Senator Anyanwu suffer a resounding defeat to Governor Hope Uzodimma of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reports of Ihedioha’s potential defection to the LP have sparked excitement among Anyanwu’s supporters, who perceive Ihedioha as a disruptive force within the party, allegedly conspiring to undermine Anyanwu’s position as National Secretary of the party.
“We anticipated this move, as it aligns with their longstanding intentions. Ihedioha’s absence during the PDP’s involvement in the recent governorship election only reaffirms his allegiances,” remarked a party stalwart sympathetic to the Anyanwu faction.
The PDP’s South East caucus, led by Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, has been vocal in its calls for Anyanwu’s removal, citing concerns over his simultaneous occupancy of multiple roles within the party, as National Secretary and governorship candidate in the 2023 guber polls.
The prospect of Ihedioha’s potential move to the Labour Party raises questions about his relationship with influential figures within the party hierarchy, notably his ally Peter Obi, who wields considerable sway within the LP.
Martin Opara, a chieftain of the party, and a known Ihedioha ally in a statement, stated valid reasons why Ihedioha should leave the PDP.
“The failure of PDP as an opposition party to checkmate the ruling party and fight for the masses whole proferring alternative, caused by party’s erosion by agents of the corrupt ruling party, is a major reason why Ihedioha should quit PDP” he stated.
As of now, clarity regarding Ihedioha’s intentions remains unclear, leaving the PDP in a state of uncertainty as it grapples with internal st