The former Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State, Barrister Ben Nwoye, has officially resigned from the party, citing deep internal crises and the disintegration of leadership as his reasons for departure.
Nwoye, who previously served as a Federal Commissioner at the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) representing the South East, made the announcement during a press briefing at De Sheriff Hotel in Enugu.
Nwoye, who was instrumental in the formation of the APC, expressed disappointment over the party’s loss of unity and cohesion, referencing the APC’s symbol — the broom — which he described as “loosened and permanently scattered.”
He criticized the leadership of the APC in the South East for focusing on “vindictive politics” rather than fostering growth and inclusivity.
According to him, the regional leadership has been more interested in suppressing dissenting voices and political enemies rather than expanding the party’s reach.
He also highlighted ongoing factional disputes within the APC in Enugu, revealing that two rival factions are fighting for control, with one faction backed by a judicial pronouncement and the other in open defiance.
Nwoye accused the national leadership of neglecting the crisis and failing to act on repeated calls for reconciliation from party elders, claiming that loyal party members who disagreed with the central leadership were treated as “prisoners of political war.”
“I have engaged in extensive consultations with my grassroots followers, and I have come to the conclusion that it is time to move on,” Nwoye said, adding, “I refuse to be a political prisoner.”
Beyond Enugu, Nwoye extended his criticism to the marginalization of other prominent APC figures in the South East, including former Minister of Labour Senator Chris Ngige from Anambra and Dr. Ikechi Emenike from Abia.
He claimed that these individuals, despite their significant contributions to building the party, had been sidelined.
Nwoye’s resignation marks a significant setback for the APC in Enugu and raises fresh concerns about the party’s stability and internal democracy in the South East region.