The Action Peoples Party (APP) has successfully elected its state officers in Imo State ahead of the 2028 off-cycle gubernatorial election, marking a significant step in the party’s organizational strengthening and political positioning. The election took place during a state congress held at the party’s secretariat on MCC Uratta Road in Owerri on Sunday, with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) present to oversee the process. The event followed a structured timeline that began with ward-level congresses on April 22, proceeded to local government and zonal elections on April 24, and culminated in the election of the State Working Committee (SWC).
The congress attracted party chieftains, leaders, stakeholders, ward executives, and delegates from all three senatorial zones of Imo State, underscoring the party’s commitment to inclusive and democratic internal processes. Ernest Njesi, former interim caretaker committee chairman, was re-elected as the state chairman in a consensus vote, reaffirming his leadership role within the party. Joining him on the SWC were Barr. Ogemdi Ezemonye, Engr. Henry Alaribe, and Hon. Ernest Ezirim, elected as deputy chairmen for Orlu, Owerri, and Okigwe zones respectively.
Engr. Emeka Onwukwe was elected as substantive state secretary, with Hon. Chief Uju Ugochukwu as deputy state secretary. Barr. Dr. Uche Nwosu was appointed state legal adviser, while Barr. Casmir Anyanwu returned as deputy state legal adviser. Chief Sylvester Durukwuaku and Hon. Eddy Nwosu were elected as state financial secretary and deputy, respectively. Amb. Steve Nnadi became the state publicity secretary, supported by Hon. Wisdom Echefu as deputy.
The state youth leader position went to Comrade Isidore Chukwuemeka, with Hon. Chinonye Ezuruike as deputy. Mrs. Stella Nneka Chukwu and Mrs. May Obiyo were elected as woman leader and deputy, respectively. Hon. Michael Onyemachi, former House of Assembly member for Ihitte Uboma, was chosen as organising secretary, with Hon. JohnPaul Onuoha as deputy. Hon. Peter Etoh was elected state treasurer, and Dr. Brent Akomas was sworn in as party auditor.
In his acceptance speech, Chairman Ernest Njesi urged party members to intensify efforts to build a strong, united, and viable political force capable of winning the 2028 gubernatorial election. He emphasized the need for unwavering commitment to the party’s ideals and goals. The congress committee, led by Okenze Blyden Amajirionwu, commended the smooth conduct of the election, noting the transparency and credibility ensured by INEC’s Electoral Party Monitoring unit, represented by Dr. Nneka Iluogu, and the presence of security agencies.
Hon. Ikenga Imo Ugochinyere, representing Ideato North/South Federal Constituency, encouraged the newly elected officers to engage in aggressive grassroots mobilization, highlighting APP’s status as the leading opposition party in Imo State with two active House of Representatives members. He called for unity, cohesion, and strategic public engagement to secure electoral success. Meanwhile, Hon. Chief Henry Onwukwe (Apiti Uzo-Ubi), Director-General of The Mazi Organization (TMO), reaffirmed the party’s confidence in Dr. Chima Mathew Amadi’s leadership, describing it as instrumental in transforming APP into a formidable electoral force.
With its leadership structure now in place, the APP is poised to intensify its campaign for the 2028 gubernatorial election, aiming to consolidate its position as a dominant political force in Imo State.
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