Rep Member Vows To Revive APC In Abia

The member representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency and Chairman house committee on South East Development Commission, Hon. Chris Nkwonta has vowed to revive the dwindling fortune of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia South.

The lawmaker defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on October 2 to the APC.

Speaking during an interactive session with press men at the gathering of APC Members on Tuesday, he described the gathering as an opportunity for party members to connect and strategize on strengthening APC in the region.

“You know I defected from PDP to APC on October 2, so this is like an interactive session for us to get to know one another.

“The goal is to grow the party and ensure that, come election time, the party performs better than before. In the last general election, APC finished third in the presidential race—why should that be? We should aim for first place,” said Nkwonta

As a member of the board of the Southeast Development Commission (SEDC), Nkwonta acknowledged the region’s infrastructural deficits, particularly in roads, railways, and seaports.

However, he expressed confidence that the commission would address these issues.

“By creating the SEDC, the president has given us a platform to focus on areas where we are lacking. As chairman of that committee, I assure you that SEDC will deliver on those promises,” he stated.

Addressing concerns about factionalism within APC, Nkwonta dismissed claims of division and urged members to unite under a single party structure. He also remained noncommittal about his political ambitions.

“I don’t know yet which office I’ll run for—whether House of Assembly, House of Reps, or Senate. I could even run for president; you never know. But for now, the priority is to grow the party.”

Responding to criticisms of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, Nkwonta defended the removal of fuel subsidies, arguing that it was a necessary step to restructure the economy.

“It takes a courageous president to remove the subsidy from day one because it has been a drain on Nigeria’s economy, benefiting only a few,” he explained.

On security challenges in the Southeast, he linked the security unrest to unemployment and emphasized that the SEDC would create economic opportunities to address the issue.

He however expressed optimism about the possible release of Nnamdi Kanu, stating, “Before the end of this administration, by the special grace of God, Nnamdi Kanu will be released, and this will contribute to peace and security in the Southeast.”