Ex MOAU VC, Prof Hilary Edeoga Joins APC, Says It’s Time to Key into the Federal System

Former Vice-Chancellor of Michael Okpara University of Agriculture, Umudike (MOUAU), Prof Hilary Odo Edeoga(OON) has officially defected to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, ending his long-standing affiliation with the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).

Prof Edeoga, a respected scholar in Plant Taxonomy and Cytogenetics, was a PDP governorship aspirant im Enugu state during the 2023 general elections .

Speaking during his declaration at Ogbuegu-Amede, Eha-Amufu Ward 4 in Isi-Uzo Local Government Area on Sunday, Edeoga said he joined the APC to continue contributing to national development within the country’s ruling party.

“In Nigerian politics, it’s not the name that matters but how one contributes to national development. I have been a national player for most of my career, serving in federal institutions and as Vice-Chancellor of a federal university. It is only natural to align with the federal system to continue making an impact,” he said.

“My former party has its internal challenges, but I am not one to condemn any party. Wherever one finds himself, the goal should be to contribute meaningfully to national progress.”

His defection was met with jubilation, as APC members in the ward sang and danced to welcome him.

Ward 4 APC Chairman, Chief Innocent Achigbo, described Edeoga’s arrival as a major boost for the party.

“We’re welcoming a big fish, a big masquerade, into our fold. From today, he is no longer PDP but APC. This is a great day for our ward because he will bring colour, strength, and support to the party at the ward, local government, and state levels,” Achigbo said.

APC Assistant Secretary in Isi-Uzo LGA, Mr. Okwudili Eze, praised Edeoga as a worthy son of the community whose influence will help the party grow.

“Prof Edeoga has impacted many lives and is loved by the people. His followers and goodwill will strengthen APC’s grassroots base,” Eze said.

With his entry, the APC in Enugu State gains another high-profile figure ahead of future political contests.