2027: Ebonyi NRM Accuses Ex-Guber Candidate of Using Party to Seek APC Patronage

The Ebonyi State chapter of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) has accused its 2023 governorship candidate, Comrade Tony Usulor, of attempting to manipulate the party’s structure for personal political gain ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a strongly worded statement released on Monday, the state leadership dismissed Usulor’s claim that he had dissolved the NRM framework in Ebonyi and merged it into the All Progressives Congress (APC). The statement, issued by Hon. Ogodo Stanley, the state chairman, was made on behalf of the executive officers, stakeholders, and members of the party.

The NRM leadership emphasized that no official decision has been taken to dissolve or transfer the party’s structure to another political platform. They described Usulor’s actions as an unauthorized and unilateral attempt to hijack the party’s machinery for his own political ambitions. According to the statement, such moves are not only unconstitutional within the party’s internal guidelines but also undermine the collective efforts of members who have worked to build the NRM in Ebonyi State.

Hon. Ogodo Stanley stressed that the party remains committed to its principles and will not allow any individual to use its structure for personal advancement. He warned that any member found engaging in activities that weaken the party’s unity or integrity will face disciplinary action. The leadership called on all members to remain loyal and focused on strengthening the NRM’s presence in the state.

Usulor, who contested the 2023 governorship election under the NRM banner, had previously announced his intention to join the APC. However, the party insists that this does not equate to a merger or dissolution of its local structures. The NRM maintains that political affiliations can change, but organizational frameworks must be handled through proper channels and democratic processes.

The development has sparked concern among party members and political observers, who fear that internal divisions could weaken the NRM’s chances in future elections. Some analysts believe Usulor’s move may be part of a broader strategy to position himself for the 2027 polls under a different party umbrella. Nonetheless, the Ebonyi NRM leadership remains firm in its stance, vowing to uphold party discipline and ensure transparency in all decisions.

As the 2027 elections draw closer, political parties across Nigeria are expected to undergo realignments and repositioning. The NRM’s response in Ebonyi highlights the growing tensions within smaller parties as they navigate the competitive landscape of Nigerian politics. The party’s ability to maintain cohesion will be crucial in determining its relevance in the upcoming electoral cycle.