Road to 2027: Gov. Otti’s NASS Liaison Officer, Iheanyi Chinasa, Defects to APC, Aligns with Deputy Speaker Kalu

In a development underscoring intensifying political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, Chief Iheanyi Frank Chinasa (popularly known as Dogo), the National Assembly Liaison Officer to Alex Otti, has formally defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Chinasa, who has now aligned politically with the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, attended a meeting of APC critical stakeholders in Owerri, Imo State. The meeting was convened by the Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, on Sunday.

The defection is particularly noteworthy given Chinasa’s prior political stance. He contested the 2023 House of Representatives election for Bende Federal Constituency against Kalu and had remained a vocal critic of the Deputy Speaker.

Until his defection, Chinasa served in a strategic capacity within the Labour Party-led administration in Abia State, acting as a key liaison between the state government and members of the National Assembly. In this role, he coordinated legislative engagements involving Abia’s federal lawmakers.

Observers consider the move a significant shift in Abia’s political dynamics, reflecting the growing influence of the Deputy Speaker and signaling heightened political activity as the 2027 elections draw closer.

Kalu, widely regarded as a leading figure of the APC in Abia State, has been credited with strengthening party structures across the state since assuming office as Deputy Speaker.

Although Chinasa is yet to publicly state the reasons for his defection, Kalu welcomed him into the APC fold, describing the move as indicative of more high-profile defections in the near future.

He also urged party members to remain committed to the party’s goals, particularly the re-election of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking at the meeting, Kalu said:

“Dogo ran the election with me in Bende for the House of Representatives and was later appointed by the governor as National Assembly Liaison Officer. He is from Bende and from Ikwu Isii, my own section of the constituency. Today, he has joined our party, and I am confident he will feel welcome among the distinguished men and women present here.

I encourage all members, especially aspirants, to remain strong, courageous, and committed. The harder you work, the more people will be attracted to the APC.”