APP Names Ugochinyere Reps Caucus Leader

The Action Peoples Party (APP) has appointed Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere as its House of Representatives Caucus Leader, in a move aimed at strengthening the party’s legislative footing in the National Assembly.

The appointment followed the defection of two serving lawmakers—Ugochinyere and Hon. Mathew Nwaogu from their respective former parties to the APP on Tuesday.

Ugochinyere, who previously belonged to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Nwaogu, a former member of the Labour Party (LP), formally announced their switch through separate letters read on the floor of the House by the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, at plenary.

In their correspondence, both lawmakers cited “persistent internal crises” within their former parties as the primary reason for their defection, noting that the situation had “hindered effective participation and quality representation” of their constituents.

The APP leadership described the development as a strategic boost to its presence in the lower chamber.

Speaking at plenary, the party’s National Chairman, Chief Uche Nnadi, welcomed the defecting lawmakers, describing their decision as “a bold step towards strengthening democratic values and deepening effective representation.”

He further assured that the APP remains committed to “providing a credible platform for progressive lawmakers dedicated to people-oriented governance.”

Nnadi added that the inclusion of the new members would “enhance the party’s influence and legislative impact within the National Assembly.”

The party also reiterated its openness to like-minded political actors across the country, reaffirming its resolve to build “a formidable political force anchored on accountability, service, and national development.”