Former Imo Labour Party Gubernatorial Candidate Athan Achonu Defects to APGA, Cites LP’s Loss of Political Relevance

Former Imo LP guber candidate Athan Achonu defects to APGA, calling the Labour Party irrelevant. He also urges President Tinubu to pardon Nnamdi Kanu.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 6, 2026, 6:33 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from The Sun Nigeria

Strategic Political Realignment in the Southeast

In a significant shift within the Southeast political landscape, Senator Athan Achonu has resigned from the Labour Party to join the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA). Achonu, who previously represented Imo East in the 8th Senate and flew the Labour Party flag in the 2023 Imo gubernatorial race, announced his decision during a press briefing in Abuja on April 6, 2026. He characterized the move as a necessary step to align with a platform that prioritizes the collective interests and developmental goals of the Igbo people and the broader Nigerian federation.

Criticism of Labour Party’s Current Standing

During his briefing, Achonu was candid about his reasons for leaving his former party, asserting that the Labour Party has lost its political relevance and effectiveness. He stated that his transition to APGA followed extensive consultations with constituents and political associates. Achonu described APGA as a "truly progressive platform" and urged other political actors in the Southeast—including governors and legislators who may have been aggrieved by previous internal party friction—to unite under the APGA umbrella to strengthen the region’s bargaining power.

Advocacy for Anioma State and Regional Inclusion

Beyond his party defection, the former lawmaker used the platform to champion the creation of Anioma State. He argued that incorporating Anioma into the Southeast region is a matter of "inclusion, fairness, and justice," rather than sectional interest. According to Achonu, bringing "brothers and sisters from the South-South" into a shared Southeast vision would rectify long-standing imbalances and promote a more cohesive regional identity focused on progress.