The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has firmly denied allegations that it allowed a non-member to win its governorship primary election, insisting the process was transparent and strictly adhered to party guidelines. The party’s Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, addressed the media at the APC secretariat in Umuahia on Monday, dismissing claims that Eric Opah, the declared winner, was not a genuine member of the party. Aguoru emphasized that Opah has been an active and grounded member of the APC long before the primary election took place, countering suggestions that he was “smuggled in” through unofficial channels.
The primary election, held recently, saw Eric Opah emerge as the APC’s gubernatorial candidate after securing 125,977 votes. This was in stark contrast to the 5,905 votes received by former Minister of State for Science and Technology, Henry Ikoh, who had been backed by some influential party members. Despite the overwhelming margin, some top APC figures, including Mezie Chiekwe Esiaga and Ndubuisi Eme, had previously threatened to work against the party if Ikoh was not given the ticket. They warned that the APC would face a major defeat in the 2027 general elections if the party did not honor their preferred candidate.
In response, Aguoru accused these dissenting members of being sponsored by an opposition party in Abia State with the aim of creating internal divisions and embarrassing the APC. He stressed that the party remains united and focused on the 2027 polls, contrasting this with the Labour Party, which currently governs Abia State and is reportedly split into two factions. The APC official reiterated that the primary election followed due process and that the party’s leadership has no intention of undermining the outcome.
The denial comes amid growing political tension within the APC in Abia State, as factions within the party vie for influence ahead of the next general elections. While the party leadership insists on unity and adherence to democratic processes, critics argue that the outcome of the primary may have been influenced by behind-the-scenes negotiations. Nonetheless, the APC’s official stance is clear: Eric Opah is the legitimate candidate, and the party will rally behind him for the 2027 gubernatorial race.
As the political landscape in Abia State continues to evolve, the APC’s ability to maintain cohesion will be crucial in challenging the ruling Labour Party. The party’s leadership remains confident that its internal structure and electoral process will stand up to scrutiny, and that the 2027 elections will be a defining moment for APC’s future in the state.
Leave a Comment