No Automatic Gov Ticket for Enugu APC Defectors – Nnaji

APC Leadership in Enugu Emphasizes Fairness and Inclusivity

Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Chief Uche Nnaji, has emphasized that the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Enugu State will not offer automatic governorship tickets to defectors. He warned that no individual would be allowed to bypass the party’s internal processes or take control of the party structure without due diligence.

During an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held in Enugu on Saturday, Nnaji reiterated that while the APC is open to welcoming new members from across the state, all aspirants—regardless of their previous political standing—must go through the party’s primary elections. This stance reflects the party’s commitment to democratic principles and fair competition.

Nnaji pointed out that some individuals, whom he referred to as “politically displaced politicians,” have been actively lobbying in Abuja to join the APC in Enugu and gain influence without going through the proper channels. He assured the public that such attempts would be resisted.

He stated, “The APC has come to stay; that is why from every nook and cranny, people want to join the APC. We want people to come in, but we will not give them a free ticket. They must go to contest.”

Nnaji further emphasized that no one, regardless of their current political status, would receive special treatment. Even the highest office holders in the country would have to follow the same process if they wished to run for governor in Enugu.

“If the President of Nigeria wants to come and run for the governor of Enugu State, let him come, we will support him. If the former governor of anywhere wants to join us, let him come, we will run the primaries. It will make it even easier — the primary will be the main election, so that when we finish with the primary, we know we have finished,” he said.

The minister also highlighted that some “internally displaced politicians” in the state lack a political base, moving from one party to another without commitment. He urged them to join the APC, stating that without a party, they would continue to be “partyless” and struggle to find direction.

“[They] are running from pillar to post until it is late. But the good thing is that our mission is being supported by the good Lord that created us, so we are heading to the Government House,” Nnaji added.

Commitment from New Members

At the meeting, three members of the House of Representatives who recently defected from the Labour Party to the APC pledged their full support for the party’s goals. These members include Hon Sunday Umeha (Udi/Ezeagu), Hon Chimobi Atu (Enugu North/Enugu South), and Hon Prof Paul Nnamchi. They committed to ensuring that the APC secures all elective positions in the state during the 2027 general elections, including the governorship seat.

Support from Enugu Progressive Group

Meanwhile, a political pressure group within the APC, known as the Enugu Progressive Group, has publicly endorsed the re-election bids of President Bola Tinubu and Governor Peter Mbah in 2027. The group, which includes members from all 260 wards and 17 local government areas in the state, held a meeting where it unanimously supported Tinubu for a second term.

The group cited federal projects and policy reforms that have benefited the South-East region as key reasons for its endorsement. Dr Ben Nwoye, the leader and former APC state chairman, praised Tinubu’s economic policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of foreign exchange rates.

“These reforms are painful now but are laying a solid foundation for economic stability,” Nwoye said. “We’ve seen tangible benefits in Enugu State, which include new institutions, appointments, and infrastructure, and we believe he deserves a second term.”

This collective effort underscores the APC’s growing strength in Enugu and its determination to maintain a clear focus on achieving political success through structured and transparent processes.