Escaping Accountability: APGA Explodes As Defectors Accused of Betraying Voters, Pocketing Projects

Two serving lawmakers in Ebonyi State namely Hon. Joseph Nwobashi and Hon. Kevin Kenechukwu Okeh have officially defected from the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), triggering criticism from the party's state leadership.

The party has described their defection as a calculated escape from accountability and a betrayal of public trust.

Hon. Joseph Nwobashi represents Ezza North/Ishielu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives while Hon. Kevin Kenechukwu Okeh (Kenok) is member representing Ezza North East State Constituency in the Ebonyi State House of Assembly.

In a strongly worded statement issued by Comrade Chris Emmanuel, Media Director of APGA Ebonyi State, the party reminded the defectors that they still carry APGA mandates and owe allegiance to the voters who elected them under the party’s platform.

“They were elected on the credibility of APGA. Their exit is not a loss to us but a cleansing that allows space for committed leaders who will deliver the dividends of democracy,” the statement read.

The party also alleged that both legislators received “billions of naira” in public funds for constituency development projects but failed to deliver tangible results.

“These lawmakers abandoned their constituencies and refused to account for federal and state allocations meant for grassroots development,” the party claimed.

According to APGA State Chairman, Hon. Chukwudi Nwankwo, both lawmakers not only neglected their voters but also failed to fulfill basic party responsibilities, including financial contributions.

“The party is still waiting for an explanation. We will declare our official position after consulting stakeholders. But let it be clear—they still represent APGA in the eyes of the law,” Hon. Nwankwo said.

Contrary to hush voices, APGA maintained that there is no internal dispute either in the state or national structure of the party.

“This defection is not driven by crisis; it is driven by self-interest. Our structure in Ezza North and Ezza North East remains solid and resilient,” Nwankwo added.

This development raises questions about ethical standards in Nigerian politics. When elected officials defect mid-term, should they automatically forfeit their seats? What mechanisms ensure that public funds allocated for community development are properly utilized?

APGA insists it is time to enforce political responsibility and prevent elected officials from using defection as a cover for non-performance.