The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has declared that candidates for the 2027 general elections will not be hand-picked or imposed, emphasizing a democratic and inclusive process for selecting party nominees. Chijioke Chukwu, Chairman of the APC in Abia, made this announcement during a meeting at the party’s state office in Umuahia on Tuesday, where he received Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, an aspirant for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency. Chukwu stressed that every candidate would have a fair and equal opportunity to contest, ensuring that the will of party members determines who gets the party’s ticket.
Chukwu condemned past practices within the party where certain members used the APC’s name to secure federal appointments without genuine party involvement or democratic processes. He said the party has moved away from such tendencies and is now committed to restoring grassroots democracy. “We have returned power to the people,” he declared. “Nobody can stay on this table and give anybody a ticket.” He further explained that the APC in Abia no longer operates under a system where individuals can claim to have discussed with party headquarters to secure nominations.
The party chairman emphasized that the current disposition of the APC reflects a shift toward transparency and fairness. He noted that no aspirant can claim a nomination based on personal connections to officials at the national party office. This new approach, he said, is designed to strengthen the party’s foundation and ensure that candidates are chosen based on merit and popular support. Chukwu also expressed concern over the current state of representation in the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, describing it as being at its lowest ebb in terms of service delivery and public engagement.
In response, Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, the aspirant for the constituency, pledged to change this narrative. As the Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement, he promised to bring fresh energy, transparency, and accountability to the constituency if given the opportunity. His campaign, he said, would focus on youth empowerment, job creation, and improved infrastructure. He also highlighted his commitment to working closely with party members and the wider electorate to rebuild trust and deliver tangible results.
The APC’s new stance in Abia signals a broader effort to reposition the party for the 2027 elections by prioritizing internal democracy and grassroots participation. This move is expected to boost member engagement and attract more credible candidates across the state. As the party prepares for the upcoming electoral cycle, the emphasis on fairness and inclusivity may reshape its political landscape in Abia.
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