No Automatic Tickets, No Candidate Imposition” — APC Leaders Declare as Abia Primaries Begin
By Charity Uwakwe
“Political tension and strategic consultations shaped discussions in Umuahia on Thursday as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State reaffirmed their commitment to transparent direct primaries ahead of the 2027 elections. Prominent party stakeholders, including federal lawmakers and governorship aspirants, addressed party members during a crucial meeting expected to influence the future direction of the APC in the state.”
“The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State says no aspirant will receive an automatic ticket ahead of the party primaries. During the official presentation of aspirants in Umuahia, party leaders stated that candidates would emerge either through consensus or direct primaries. The APC also pledged to conduct transparent, credible, and inclusive elections across the state.*
Political consultations and strategic discussions shaped proceedings in Umuahia on Thursday as leaders of the All Progressives Congress in Abia State reaffirmed their commitment to transparent and inclusive direct primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Prominent party stakeholders, including federal lawmakers, governorship aspirants, and party officials, addressed members during a high-level gathering at the party’s secretariat, in what observers described as a significant meeting expected to influence the future direction of the APC in the state.
The event attracted notable political figures, including Orji Uzor Kalu, Senator representing Abia North Senatorial District; Nkeiruka Onyejeocha; and Donatus Nwankpa, among others.
Addressing party members and aspirants, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives stated that the APC would adopt only two recognised methods for producing candidates — consensus or direct primaries.
“There is no automatic ticket for anybody anywhere in this party. There is no preferential treatment for anyone. All those rumours are fake news and mere propaganda,” he stated.
According to him, consensus would only be adopted where party stakeholders and aspirants collectively agreed on a candidate through consultation and mutual understanding. However, he explained that where such agreement could not be reached, the party would proceed with direct primaries.
“We are not going to impose any candidate on the party. If someone contesting against me is more popular and wins fairly, we will accept that person as the winner,” he added.
The federal lawmaker also appealed for unity and mutual respect among party members before and after the primaries. He noted that many stakeholders had invested significant time, energy, and resources in strengthening the party structure across the state.
“We know the efforts, sacrifices, and resources invested in building this party. This is the time to reap the rewards of that labour,” he said.
Meanwhile, another party leader encouraged aspirants and supporters to remain hopeful and patient throughout the political process, stressing that leadership opportunities often emerge over time.
Sharing his personal experience, he disclosed that he waited 17 years before attaining his current position.
“I waited for 17 years. I did not give up, and today, by the grace of God, I am the Secretary-General of the House of Representatives,” he declared.
He further urged party members to prioritise cooperation and internal harmony.
“If internal divisions persist, we may not achieve the level of progress we desire. Unity will strengthen our collective efforts,” he warned.
Also speaking, the State APC Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, dismissed speculations suggesting that the party would become divided.
“Some people predicted that the party would scatter, but I told them that the same God who gathered scattered Israel would restore and reunite us,” he stated.
Chukwu explained that party members remained united by shared political goals, accountability, and a desire for improved governance in Abia State.
According to him, many supporters who contributed to previous electoral victories later felt excluded from governance processes, a development he said had encouraged renewed calls for inclusiveness and fairness.
“That shared desire for justice, accountability, and inclusion is what has united us today,” he added.
In his remarks, the Organising Secretary, Barr. Emeka Okoroafor, disclosed that 64 aspirants contested for the State House of Assembly tickets, with 63 successfully cleared, while one aspirant was disqualified.
He further revealed that nine senatorial aspirants were screened successfully — two from Abia North, four from Abia Central, and three from Abia South.
Okoroafor also announced that three governorship aspirants and 24 House of Representatives aspirants were successfully screened by the party.
According to him, the House of Representatives primaries will take place on Friday through direct primaries across the state.
He explained that only party members who were financially up to date with their membership obligations would be eligible to participate in the voting process.
The organising secretary also directed aspirants to submit lists of their agents for monitoring activities at ward and local government levels, while assuring contestants of transparent, free, fair, and credible primaries devoid of intimidation or discrimination.
“The party leadership remains committed to ensuring a transparent and equitable process for all aspirants,” he assured.
Among aspirants and stakeholders present at the event were Mascot Uzor Kalu, Chief Eric Opah, Rt. Hon. Emeka Atuma, former Senator Nkechi Nwogo, Chief Philip Nto, ESV Mark Ugorji, Hon. Erondu Junior, Rt. Hon. Chinedum Orji, Chief Chidi Avuajah, Chief Uche Aguoru, and other party leaders.
Speaking with journalists, the lawmaker representing Obingwa-West State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly and frontline aspirant for Abia South Senatorial District, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr assured constituents of more impactful and people-focused representation if elected to the Senate in 2027.
The Chairman, House Committee on Public Service Matters, said his leadership philosophy is built on performance, accountability, and service, stressing that public office should be defined by measurable achievements rather than empty promises.
According to him, “My people believe I should represent them at the 11th Senate. I intend to build on the developmental projects and empowerment programmes I have championed over the years.”
The Uhie-born legislator added that politicians seeking higher office must first account for their past and present stewardship before making new promises.
“My style of politics is to speak through results — what you have done, what you are doing, before talking about future plans,” he stated.
