The 2023 All Progressives Congress (APC) House of Representatives candidate for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, High Chief Daniel Chimezie Okeke, Ph.D., has resigned from the party and announced his decision to join the Labour Party (LP), citing his commitment to good governance, accountability and the development of Abia State.
Okeke, popularly known as Mezie Abia and Omereoha I of Ututu, announced his political realignment in a statement dated October 18, 2026, describing the move as a carefully considered decision following consultations with his political associates, supporters and members of Team Progressive.
His resignation was also conveyed in a formal letter dated October 18, 2026, addressed to the APC Ward Chairman of Ututu Ward, Nwankwo Azuma, in which he expressed appreciation for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the party’s activities.
The former APC candidate said his decision to join the Labour Party was influenced by his assessment of the administration of Governor Alex Otti, particularly its approach to infrastructure development, accountability, institutional reforms and economic growth.
According to him, the ongoing efforts to address longstanding challenges in Abia State deserve the support of individuals and political stakeholders who genuinely believe in the progress of the state, irrespective of their previous political affiliations.
“I have carefully observed the direction of governance in Abia State, and I believe there is a compelling need for every well-meaning Abian to contribute to the process of rebuilding our state,” Okeke stated.
He commended Governor Otti for what he described as the administration’s willingness to confront difficult challenges and pursue reforms aimed at strengthening public institutions and restoring confidence in governance.
Okeke maintained that the development of Abia State should take precedence over partisan interests, stressing that political parties must serve as platforms for improving the lives of citizens rather than instruments of personal ambition.
“My decision to join the Labour Party reflects my conviction that political platforms should be instruments for advancing the interests of the people. At this critical stage of our development, the collective interest of Abia State must take precedence over partisan considerations,” he said.
However, the former APC candidate clarified that his defection to the Labour Party should not be interpreted as a declaration of interest in contesting any elective position ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He explained that his immediate priority was to contribute meaningfully to the development of Abia State through community engagement, private-sector investment, youth empowerment and support for credible government initiatives.
“This decision is about contributing to the future of our state, not declaring an ambition for elective office,” Okeke emphasised.
He noted that leadership and public service extend beyond occupying political office, adding that individuals could make significant contributions to society through entrepreneurship, philanthropy and initiatives that create economic opportunities.
Speaking on his political structure, Okeke reaffirmed his commitment to Team Progressive and the Mezie and Agnes Foundation, describing them as platforms for promoting responsible leadership, youth empowerment, entrepreneurship and community development.
He urged his supporters and associates across Arochukwu, Ohafia and other parts of Abia State to embrace his new political direction with unity and maturity.
According to him, the challenges confronting ordinary citizens, including unemployment, inadequate infrastructure, limited access to healthcare and difficulties facing small businesses, should remain central to political discussions and government policies.
“Our responsibility is bigger than party politics. We must think about the young graduate searching for a meaningful opportunity, the entrepreneur struggling to grow a business, the farmer seeking access to markets, the family hoping for better healthcare and education, and the communities that need infrastructure and economic investment,” he stated.
Okeke also called for greater collaboration between government, the private sector, traditional institutions, community leaders and civil society organisations to accelerate development across the state.
He stressed that political differences should not prevent leaders from working together on initiatives that promote the collective welfare of the people.
“Our political differences should never be greater than our love for Abia. We may have come from different political backgrounds or supported different political parties, but we share a common home and a common responsibility to its people,” he said.
Despite his departure from the APC, Okeke expressed gratitude to his former political associates and party leaders for the relationships and experiences gained during his membership.
In his resignation letter, he thanked the Ututu Ward leadership for its cooperation and support, stating that he remained committed to peace, unity, mutual respect and community development.
He further explained that his decision was not motivated by personal grievances against his former colleagues but by his present political convictions and desire to contribute to the future of Abia State.
Looking ahead, Okeke expressed his readiness to work with Governor Alex Otti, Labour Party leaders and other stakeholders committed to improving governance and expanding economic opportunities.
“I look forward to this new chapter in the Labour Party with optimism, humility and a renewed sense of responsibility. I am prepared to work with Governor Alex Otti, other progressive leaders and the good people of Abia State to support initiatives that strengthen governance, expand economic opportunities and promote sustainable development,” he declared.
Okeke’s departure from the APC represents a notable political development in Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, where he contested the House of Representatives election on the party’s platform in 2023.
His decision also comes as political parties and stakeholders across Abia State continue preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
While Okeke has ruled out an immediate declaration of electoral ambition, his decision to align with the Labour Party and express support for Governor Otti’s administration introduces a new dimension to political developments in the constituency.
ABN TV reports that Okeke’s resignation letter took effect on October 18, 2026, the same date he publicly announced his new political direction.
The former APC candidate maintained that his overriding commitment remains the pursuit of an Abia State where good governance, economic opportunities, inclusive development and improved public services benefit all citizens.
