By our reporter
In a bold political move that has reshaped the dynamics of Imo State politics, Hon Darlington Amaechi PhD, a former House of Representatives candidate under the Labour Party, officially defected to the All Progressives Congress APC on October 1, 2025. The event took place at Okpofe Ezebogu Ward 3 in Ezinihitte Mbaise Local Government Area and was marked by an elaborate reception led by Senator Ezenwa Francis Onyewuchi.
Senator Onyewuchi, who represents Imo East Senatorial District and chairs the Senate Committee on the National Agency for Science and Engineering Infrastructure NASENI, led a powerful delegation of APC leaders and supporters to welcome Amaechi into the party. The defection is seen as a major boost for the APC, particularly in the Mbaise axis, where opposition parties have traditionally held strong influence.
The high-profile event drew a host of political heavyweights including APC Zonal Chairman Chief Justus Oguh, Executive Chairman of Ezinihitte Mbaise LGA Hon Chinedu Nwachukwu, House of Assembly member for Ezinihitte Mbaise Hon Chief Dr Henry Agbasonu, and APC LGA Chairman Hon Frank Adindu. Other notable figures present were High Chief Dr Summers VC Nwokie Ikukuoma, Hon Chief FS Onyeberechi, ward leaders, youth groups, and hundreds of enthusiastic party supporters.
Speaking during the ceremony, Hon Darlington Amaechi expressed appreciation for the warm reception and explained the reasons behind his decision to switch parties. He praised the leadership style of Governor Hope Uzodimma, highlighting visible infrastructural achievements, inclusive governance, and strategic development initiatives across the state.
I am proud to become a member of the APC, a party that is clearly focused on delivering real development to our people, Amaechi said. Governor Uzodimmas work speaks for itself, and Senator Ezenwa Onyewuchis dedication to grassroots empowerment and federal representation is commendable. I am here to contribute my strength, experience, and ideas toward building a stronger future for our constituency and Imo State at large.
Amaechi, a respected banker, businessman, and community mobilizer, was the Labour Party candidate for the Ahiazu Ezinihitte Mbaise Federal Constituency in the 2023 general elections. His defection is seen as a strategic win for the APC, as it consolidates its growing influence across the Owerri Zone ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Senator Onyewuchi, while welcoming Amaechi to the APC, described him as a valuable asset whose experience and credibility will enhance the partys reach and effectiveness. He urged other leaders across the state to embrace unity, strengthen the party structure at the grassroots, and continue supporting the governors people-oriented agenda.
The ceremony ended with jubilant chants and celebration from party faithful, as the APC marked what many described as a new chapter in its political journey in Mbaise and Imo State as a whole.
