Enugu, Nigeria – A prominent member of the Labour Party (LP) in Enugu State, Chief Ogochukwu Onyema, has revealed that he may defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP) if the party welcomes former LP presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, into its ranks.
Chief Onyema, a former senatorial aspirant under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Enugu West, made this known during an exclusive interview in Enugu over the weekend. He described the SDP as an “emerging party” with growing national relevance, citing its internal regulations which discourage members from engaging in prolonged legal disputes.
“If Obi moves to SDP, I will follow him,” Onyema stated, suggesting that the former Anambra governor’s presence could redefine the party’s future.
The Ohanaeze chieftain also used the opportunity to praise Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, for what he described as “visionary leadership” and “proactive governance.”
“If you want me to tell you about His Excellency, Ndubisi Mbah, I say to you that whoever does the way I do, I’ll call my good friend,” Onyema said. “Each time I see his choice of projects, I smile within myself. This man is strategic, he’s futuristic. I admire his leadership style.”
Onyema recounted his journey through the PDP, noting his disappointment over multiple failed attempts to secure a legislative ticket despite contesting for the House of Representatives and the Senate on three different occasions.
“I was in PDP when we won the election that produced Peter Mbah and I said I am leaving PDP,” he recalled. “I said they should not give me an appointment, let me chart my own course.”
Although he refrained from clearly stating his political ambition for the 2027 general elections, Onyema’s remarks hint at a continuing interest in public service—albeit under a different political platform.
His statements have further fueled speculation about potential realignments ahead of 2027, especially as political actors across the country begin to reposition.
