APC Abia Central Stakeholders Defend Senatorial Primary, Petition National Chairman Over Allegations
By Ekpeoma Greg Nkwo
E-ISSN: 2354-4481
A coalition of stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia Central Senatorial District has formally petitioned the National Chairman of the party, Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, regarding issues arising from the party’s senatorial primary election conducted on May 18, 2026.
In the petition, the stakeholders rejected allegations of irregularities reportedly raised by supporters of Sam Onuigbo, describing the claims as misleading and capable of creating unnecessary divisions within the party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group identified two individuals associated with an earlier petition, Uche Onyejekwe and Ego Nwamuo, as persons they alleged are closely linked to Onuigbo. According to the stakeholders, the individuals do not represent the collective position of APC leaders and members across the senatorial district.
The petitioners further argued that efforts aimed at questioning the outcome of the primary election could undermine party cohesion and distract members from preparations for future electoral contests. They therefore called for unity and focus as the party positions itself for the 2027 elections.
The stakeholders also referenced events following the 2023 elections, noting that prolonged legal disputes within the party had affected its political activities at the time. They urged party members to avoid actions capable of generating internal conflicts and instead channel their energies toward strengthening the APC's electoral prospects in Abia State.
Addressing the conduct of the May 18 senatorial primary, the group maintained that the exercise was conducted in line with party guidelines and reflected the preferences of participating party members. They cited the official vote figures announced after the primary as follows:
Emeka Atuma – 36,935 votes
Nkechi Nwaogu – 11,457 votes
Sam Onuigbo – 5,833 votes
Based on the results, the stakeholders stated that the outcome reflected the decision of party delegates and members who participated in the exercise. They maintained that the primary election was free, transparent, and credible.
The petitioners consequently urged the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to carefully review all submissions relating to the primary and uphold the outcome of the exercise. They appealed to the party leadership to remain focused on strengthening internal unity and consolidating support ahead of the next general election.
The petition was endorsed by several party stakeholders from across the six local government areas that make up the senatorial district, including Ngozi Orji (Ikwuano LGA), Tony Eze (Umuahia North LGA), Max Adindu (Umuahia South LGA), Obioma Chigbu (Isiala Ngwa South LGA), Dennis Amalagha (Isiala Ngwa North LGA), and Nneoma B. Nwaigwe (Osisioma LGA).
As of the time of filing this report, the APC national leadership had not issued an official response to the petition.
