By Deborah Hassan
365Daily – Former Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Imo State, Senator Athan Achonu, has defected to the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), declaring the party a “truly progressive platform” capable of advancing the interests of the Southeast.
Achonu, who represented Imo East in the 8th Senate on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), announced his defection on Monday during a press briefing in Abuja, citing the need to reposition regional politics for development, equity and justice.
“I have officially defected from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Grand Alliance. This decision was not taken lightly,” he said, adding that the LP had lost its political relevance.
According to him, the move followed extensive consultations with constituents and political allies.
“This decision came after wide consultations with my constituents, political associates, and well-meaning Nigerians who believe that the time has come to reposition our politics,” he said.
Achonu used the opportunity to call for unity within APGA, urging aggrieved members—particularly those dissatisfied with the party’s 2019 governorship primaries—to “forgive and forget” and join efforts to rebuild the party.
“I am calling on progressive governors, lawmakers and political actors across the Southeast to join hands with me to strengthen this party,” he added.
On regional development, the former lawmaker threw his weight behind the proposed creation of Anioma State, describing it as a matter of inclusion and fairness.
“This is not about sectional interest. It is about inclusion, fairness, and bringing our brothers and sisters in the South-South closer into a shared vision of progress,” he said, urging stakeholders to support the initiative.
Achonu also appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to grant a pardon to the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, as part of efforts to restore peace in the Southeast.
“I appeal to the President to take a compassionate and statesmanlike look into the case of Nnamdi Kanu. Granting him pardon will go a long way in calming tensions,” he said.
On governance and the economy, he raised concerns over the management of increased revenues accruing to states following the removal of fuel subsidy, stressing the need for transparency and accountability.
“With increased allocations, Nigerians expect tangible improvements in infrastructure and living standards. Resources must be used for the benefit of the people,” he stated.
He further called for full autonomy for local governments, arguing that decentralising power would strengthen grassroots development and enhance security.
“Local governments must not remain appendages of state governors. When truly autonomous, they can play a critical role in reducing insecurity,” he said.
Achonu also warned against undue political interference in governance, alleging that some governors were influencing the work of federal ministers.
“Governance must be allowed to function without unnecessary interference,” he said, while urging the President to safeguard the independence of institutions such as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
On insecurity, the former senator advocated a shift in strategy, including a regulated framework that allows citizens to defend themselves.
“Citizens should be allowed, within a regulated framework, to defend themselves. Properly licensed private security outfits can reduce the burden on conventional agencies,” he said, while also suggested broader structural reforms, including regional governance models, to bring government closer to the people.