By Chijindu Emeruwa
Former 2nd Vice chairman of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Dr Monday Ubani, SAN, has lauded the recent defection of Chief Onyebuchi Ememanka to the ruling labour party in Abia state.
Recall that Ememanka was a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party and ex-Chief Press Secretary to former Governors of Abia state, Okezie Ikpeazu.
Last weekend, he joined labour party after announcing his resignation from the PDP and was received in the new party by Governor Otti.
Dr Ubani, while reacting in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday, posited that Ememanka’s latest political move was not only deeply personal but also an honest account of loyalty and a pragmatic decision to align with the new vision for Abia state.
The senior lawyer asserted that the ex-Abia spokesman has shown uncommon integrity in acknowledging his past and reaffirming his respect for his benefactor and for principal, okezie ikpeazu often marred by bitterness and betrayal in a political culture.
According to him, “No one who truly understands the dynamics of Abia politics will fail to see the wisdom in his choice. The truth remains that Governor Alex Otti is redefining leadership in Abia through transparency, capacity, and people-centered development. The signs are visible, in Aba, Umuahia, and across the entire state. Roads are being fixed, infrastructure is receiving attention, and dignity is being restored to governance.
“We are glad that even those who once stood on the other side are now testifying that Governor Otti is leading with excellence. This is not a time for recriminations but for building a new Abia, together,”He stated.
Continuing, Ubani opined “No one can diminish or defeat Governor Otti in 2027 under any political platform he chooses to run with, except God rules otherwise. But from all indications, God is firmly on the side of progress, competence, and integrity, virtues the Governor has consistently embodied since day one.
“To Ururu Aja, we say: welcome home. Your capacity, experience, and media prowess are valuable assets in our collective mission to reposition Abia. You have not betrayed anyone; you have only chosen to dream again. Your decision is bold, strategic, and commendable. Politics, after all, should not be a prison but a platform, and you have wisely chosen to walk through a better door.
“We understand that in the heat of the past, you may have criticized us; we bore no grudge because we knew the time would come when truth would speak louder than partisanship. That time has come,”the senior lawyer added.
Ubani admonished opposition members still sitting on the fence to embrace this path of progress and join labour party in Abia state.
“The Otti-led administration is open to all Abians of goodwill, regardless of political history, as long as they are committed to a better state,” He added.
