The Labour Party in Cross River State has suffered a fresh setback with the defection of Brian Odey, the lawmaker representing Yala State Constituency 1 in the House of Assembly.
This latest defection follows an ongoing leadership tussle between rival factions within the party.
Over the weekend, the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC, officially welcomed Odey and other defectors during a grand event in Yahe Ward, Yala Local Government Area.
Brian Odey’s move marks a significant shift in the political landscape, further weakening the Labour Party’s position ahead of the upcoming Council elections on October 25, 2024.
In addition to Odey, Martins Achadu, who represents Yala State Constituency 2, also defected to the APC in Ijiraga Ward.
Both defections have sent ripples through the Labour Party, which is struggling with internal disputes led by factions headed by Ogar Osim and John Ushie.
Speaker of the Cross River State House of Assembly, Elvert Ayambem, hailed the defections as a strategic win for the APC.
“Brian’s arrival is not only a personal joy for me, but it is also a victory for the APC. His dedication and commitment to his constituents will undoubtedly contribute to the growth and success of our party,” Ayambem stated.
