Okechukwu debunks INEC publication, says he remains in PDP not Labour Party

By Linda Ike

The Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Hon. Toby Okechukwu has debunked the publication of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) list where it was indicated that he is the candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 general election for Aninri/Awgu/Oji River Federal Constituency, Enugu State.

Hon. Okechukwu said he remains a member of the People Democratic Party (PDP) and that he is not contesting in the 2023 elections.

Recalled that INEC on September 20, 2022 released the final list of candidates contesting for the 2023 general elections.

Okechukwu in a statement issued on September 21, 2022, said his position on the matter had since been conveyed to the National Chairman of the Labour Party in a letter dated 19th July 2022.

He said, “I wish to state that I will not be contesting as the candidate of the Labour Party or any other party in the said election. I remain a member of the Peoples Democratic Party.

“I deeply appreciate and can never take for granted the overwhelming goodwill of my leaders, constituents and their wish for me to be on the ballot in the 2023 general election.

“I very much understand the pains my decision is bound to cause them. However, I believe and wish to reassure them that as a constituent, I will continue to do my best and be of utmost service to them in or out of public office”.

Hon. Okechukwu thanked his people and the Leaders for their immense support and love through his years of service.