A prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State, William Nwanguma, has called on the party’s National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, to take disciplinary action against the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, over alleged anti-party activities.
Nwanguma made this demand in a petition addressed to the APC National Leadership, accusing Onyejeocha of openly endorsing the re-election bid of Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, a member of the Labour Party (LP).
Allegations of Anti-Party Conduct
According to the petition, Onyejeocha publicly declared her support for Governor Otti’s second-term ambition during a state road flag-off event in Umunneochi Local Government Area on February 28, 2025. The minister, who hails from the same LGA, reportedly urged traditional rulers and residents to back Otti’s re-election bid.
Describing her actions as a “betrayal of the APC,” Nwanguma argued that such open support for an opposition candidate by a sitting minister appointed under the APC-led federal government could weaken the party’s electoral strength in Abia.
“The conduct and utterances of the Honorable Minister, if not condemned and sanctioned by the party, will have adverse consequences in the 2027 general elections,” Nwanguma stated in the petition.
Threat to APC’s Political Strength in Abia
Nwanguma warned that failing to address Onyejeocha’s actions could create the perception that the Abia APC is complacent about winning elections. He maintained that the party was gaining momentum in the state, with notable defections from opposition parties strengthening its chances of reclaiming power in 2027.
Additionally, he accused Governor Otti of fostering divisions within the Labour Party, suggesting that Onyejeocha’s endorsement of his administration only served to undermine the APC’s efforts.
Call for Investigation and Sanctions
The petition urged the APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) to thoroughly investigate the matter and implement necessary disciplinary measures should the allegations be verified.
Political observers believe this development could test the APC’s internal cohesion in Abia, especially as the party strategizes for future elections. With 2027 on the horizon, how the party leadership handles this case may shape its prospects in the state.
