By Mercy Aikoye
Member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Joshua Chinedu Obika, has defended his recent political defections, insisting that his decisions were guided by political realities and commitment to the “New Nigeria” movement.
Obika, who represents Abuja Municipal/Bwari Federal Constituency, said Nigerians should focus less on party affiliation and more on the performance and impact of elected officials.
The lawmaker spoke amid criticism over his movement from the Labour Party to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and now to the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
According to him, what should matter most is identifying leaders who are genuinely committed to national development.
“What matters is identifying people committed to the betterment of the country, not merely the political platform they belong to,” Obika stated.
He attributed his exit from the Labour Party to the party’s prolonged internal crisis, which he said weakened its structure and created uncertainty for members.
Obika also cited the failure of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to upload candidates during Area Council elections as one of the developments that deepened concerns within the party.
The lawmaker disclosed that he initially resisted leaving the Labour Party out of loyalty to former presidential candidate, Peter Obi.
“I stayed as long as I could because of my loyalty to Peter Obi, but the political dynamics changed when he aligned with the ADC coalition,” he said.
Obika, however, expressed reservations about the coalition arrangement under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), claiming that many individuals behind it were long-time associates of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
He said supporters were concerned that Obi might not secure the party’s presidential ticket under the arrangement.
“When we are preaching for a New Nigeria, we cannot mix old wine with new wine,” he said.
Obika added that both Peter Obi and Rabiu Kwankwaso possess strong organic support bases and should consider working together for the country’s progress.
Explaining his brief move to the APC, the lawmaker said the ruling party initially appeared to offer stability amid the uncertainty in his former party.
He noted that political movement across parties is not unusual in Nigeria, citing both Obi and President Bola Tinubu as examples of politicians who have changed party platforms over time.
On his legislative record, Obika highlighted several bills he has sponsored to address challenges in the Federal Capital Territory, including proposals for agencies focused on resettlement, scholarships, nursing education, and emergency management.
He explained that the proposed compensation agency would specifically address issues arising from demolitions and resettlement of indigenous communities.
The lawmaker also listed constituency interventions facilitated by his office, including school renovations, borehole projects, and scholarship schemes.
According to him, more than 5,000 school bags and 15,000 books have been distributed to students across the constituency.
Obika called on politicians to prioritise national unity and development ahead of the 2027 elections.
“The issue should not be party differences, but the impact made on the lives of the people,” he said.
