Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jr., the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for Abia South Senatorial District, has firmly rejected claims that his name was replaced as the party’s nominee for the 2027 general election, calling the alleged substitution unlawful and unconstitutional. In a statement released on Saturday, Erondu emphasized that he remains the duly nominated APC candidate and is alive, having not withdrawn his candidature in any official capacity. The controversy arises amid reports that Paul Ikonne’s name was substituted for his, a move he insists violates the Electoral Act, 2026.
Erondu, currently serving as a member of the Abia State House of Assembly representing Obingwa West Constituency, won the APC primary election held on May 16, 2026. The primary covered all 65 electoral wards across the six local government areas that make up the Abia South Senatorial District. His victory was officially declared by the APC National Working Committee, with representatives from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Department of State Services (DSS) present to witness the process.
On June 30, 2026, Erondu received a Certified True Copy (CTC) of the primary election results, further solidifying his status as the legitimate candidate. He expressed deep concern over unverified reports suggesting his name had been replaced with Paul Ikonne’s, stating such an action contravenes Section 33 of the Electoral Act, 2026. According to the law, a political party may only substitute a candidate if the original candidate dies, voluntarily withdraws through a personally signed written notice to the party, or if a court issues an order affecting their nomination.
“I am alive. I have not withdrawn my candidature. I have never signed or submitted any notice withdrawing my candidature to the All Progressives Congress,” Erondu stated emphatically in his press release. He urged the APC National Working Committee and INEC to uphold the legal framework governing elections and avoid actions that could undermine public confidence in the democratic process.
The Abia State chapter of the APC had formally declared Erondu Uchenna Erondu as its candidate to challenge Enyinnaya Abaribe, the Labour Party’s senatorial aspirant, on July 1, 2026. This declaration came after a transparent and monitored primary process. Erondu’s insistence on legal compliance reflects broader concerns about electoral integrity ahead of the 2027 general elections, which are expected to be highly competitive in Abia State.
As the political landscape continues to evolve, Erondu’s stance underscores the importance of adhering to constitutional procedures in candidate selection. His call for accountability and adherence to electoral laws sets a precedent for other parties and candidates facing similar disputes. The outcome of this matter may influence how political parties manage nominations and substitutions in future elections.
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