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Several groups and stakeholders in the Ukwa East/West Federal Constituency of Abia State have commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the national leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for what they described as a commitment to equity and fairness in the emergence of the party’s House of Representatives candidate for the 2027 general elections.
The groups said the APC’s decision to recognise Barr. Samuel Okezie Nwogu, an indigene of Ukwa West, as its candidate for the constituency, reflects the long-standing demand for equitable political representation between Ukwa East and Ukwa West.
Addressing journalists during a press briefing in Obehie, Ukwa West Local Government Area, representatives of the New Ukwa Progressive Initiative (NUPI), Asa Development Union (ADU) and the Renewed Hope Ambassadors expressed appreciation to the APC National Working Committee, the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum, Governor Hope Uzodinma, and President Tinubu for what they described as their commitment to justice and inclusiveness.
In a communiqué signed by its National Chairman, Dr Akanwa Franklin, and National Secretary, Felix Chidubem Ambition, NUPI said the emergence of Barr. Nwogu as the APC House of Representatives candidate, alongside Hon. Prince Paul Ikonne as the party’s candidate for Abia South Senatorial District, demonstrated the party’s respect for fairness and internal democracy.
The group noted that the House of Representatives seat had been held by representatives from Ukwa East for about two decades, adding that many residents had consistently advocated a rotation of the position to Ukwa West.
According to NUPI, the party’s decision has renewed confidence among the people and reinforced the principle of equitable political participation within the constituency.
The organisation also appealed to the APC National Working Committee to remain steadfast in its decision and disregard petitions or attempts aimed at reversing the outcome of the party’s primary process.
It disclosed that it had previously written to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, advocating the enforcement of an equitable arrangement in the constituency and urging fairness in the allocation of elective offices.
“The people of Ukwa are happy with the decision of the party to uphold equity and fairness,” the communiqué stated, adding that the group would continue to promote good governance, accountability and justice.
Similarly, the Asa Development Union (ADU), in a communiqué signed by its President-General, Elder Goodluck Nwanneakolam, Secretary-General, Sir Boniface Nwaigwe, and Chairman of the Asa Think Tank Group, Elder Ezedinachi Kanu, described Barr. Nwogu is an experienced politician whose leadership qualities and accessibility would strengthen the APC’s chances in the constituency.
The union reaffirmed its support for the APC and its candidates while urging the party’s leadership to stand by its decision in the interest of fairness.
The Renewed Hope Ambassadors also endorsed Barr. Nwogu’s candidature expressed confidence that his experience and leadership would enhance the party’s electoral prospects and provide effective representation if elected.
Speaking at the event, former Chairman of the Abia State Oil Producing Areas Development Commission (ASOPADEC), Hon. Henry Chilaka, described the development as a significant moment for the constituency, saying the return of the APC House of Representatives ticket to Ukwa West addressed a long-standing concern over political balance.
Also speaking, Elder Ezedinachi Kanu expressed confidence that Barr. Nwogu would justify the confidence reposed in him based on his previous record in public service.
Former Transition Committee Chairman of Ukwa East Local Government Area, Hon. Ijeoma Azunnah, acknowledged that the House of Representatives seat had been occupied by representatives from Akwete in Ukwa East for nearly 20 years and said many residents now believe it is appropriate for the office to rotate to Ukwa West in the spirit of fairness.