**APGA Tells Abaribe, Ikwechegh to Leave NASS Seats After Defecting to Other Parties** In a recent development, the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has asked two federal lawmakers, Enyinnaya Abaribe and Alex Mascot Ikwechegh, to vacate their seats in the National Assembly. This is after the lawmakers defected to other political parties, namely the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Labour Party (LP), respectively. According to Chukwuemeka Nwokoro, the Publicity Secretary of APGA in Abia State, the lawmakers secured their mandates under the APGA platform and should therefore step down after switching parties. Nwokoro stated that their departure had unexpectedly freed the party from limitations that had previously hindered its progress. In his words, "Their actions were not unexpected, and their departure has been a welcome development that will help reposition and strengthen APGA in Abia State." He emphasized that since the two lawmakers were elected under APGA, it would be morally right for them to relinquish their seats. While acknowledging that political defections are a common feature of Nigeria's democratic system, APGA stressed that the development would not weaken the party's standing in the state. In fact, the party believes that this experience has provided valuable lessons, which will prevent opportunistic politicians from exploiting its platform in the future. Nwokoro also alleged that Abaribe and Ikwechegh contributed little to APGA's growth in Abia State during their time within the party, accusing them of undermining its progress. He assured party members that APGA would continue to thrive and grow stronger, despite the loss of these lawmakers. This move by APGA highlights the ongoing dynamics of Nigeria's party politics and the ever-shifting allegiances of its politicians. As the country approaches the next general elections, it remains to be seen how these developments will impact the political landscape in Nigeria.