Chief Okey Ehibe and more than 600 of his supporters have joined the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring support for Representative Emeka Atuma’s bid to represent Abia Central Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections.
The defection took place on October 15, 2026, at Amanwankwo, Etiti-Amavo, ABSIEC Ward 1, Osisioma Ngwa Local Government Area of Abia State, during Atuma’s campaign tour of the area.
Ehibe, who was accompanied by members of his foundation and other supporters, formally announced their decision to join the APC, marking a new political alignment ahead of the 2027 elections.
A politician with decades of involvement in public affairs, Ehibe has previously contested for elective positions, including seats in the Abia State House of Assembly and the House of Representatives, on the platforms of the All Nigeria Peoples Party (ANPP) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), respectively.
Explaining his decision to join the APC, Ehibe cited what he described as Atuma’s developmental achievements during his representation of Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, alongside his support for the policies and programmes of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
He said his decision followed an assessment of Atuma’s record in public service and his confidence in the direction of the current administration.
The development adds to political realignments taking place in Abia Central as political actors position themselves ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Atuma, who is seeking election to the Senate for Abia Central, has continued his campaign engagements across communities in the district as part of efforts to build support for his ambition.
The declaration was witnessed by APC members and supporters who gathered for the campaign event in Osisioma Ngwa.
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