Emma Igwe, spokesperson for the Anyichuks political movement, has dismissed reports suggesting that he is planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Ebonyi State.
Igwe was reacting to a publication which claimed that his presence at a meeting involving APC stakeholders in Abakaliki had fuelled speculation about a possible change in his political allegiance.
In a statement, Igwe described the report as speculative and insisted that his visit to the Ecumenical Centre in Abakaliki was purely incidental.
According to him, a message had earlier been circulated in a WhatsApp group of former members of the Ebonyi State Executive Council who served under former Governor David Umahi, inviting members to a town hall meeting at the Ecumenical Centre.
However, Igwe said he deliberately ignored the invitation because he was aware that his presence at the gathering could be politically misinterpreted, particularly amid growing political activities ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
He explained that he later visited the Ecumenical Centre to attend to a personal matter with Rev. Father Abraham Nwali, who had informed him that he was at the venue.
Igwe said that while at the centre, he exchanged pleasantries with several friends, associates and prominent Ebonyi personalities, including former Deputy Governor Prof. Chigozie Ogbu, Senator Julius Ali Ucha, Hon. Innocent Ugo Chima, as well as leaders of the Christian Association of Nigeria, the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress.
He added that the event’s Master of Ceremonies repeatedly announced his name, drawing attention to his presence, but said he left the hall before the commencement of the meeting.
“I am not contemplating defecting to the All Progressives Congress, not even in the nearest future,” Igwe stated.
He reaffirmed his commitment to the political aspiration of Chief Dr. Ifeanyi Chukwuma Odii, popularly known as Anyichuks, and the movement he represents.
Igwe also criticised what he described as attempts to attach political meaning to ordinary social interactions, arguing that political differences should not destroy friendships and personal relationships.
He congratulated more than 3,000 people who have reportedly indicated interest in joining the Anyichuks movement, saying the group’s doors remain open to Ebonyians who share its vision for competent leadership, economic transformation and inclusiveness.
The Anyichuks spokesperson urged political actors and commentators to focus on issues affecting Ebonyi residents rather than creating controversies from chance encounters.
According to him, the 2027 governorship election should be centred on ideas, competence, capacity and development rather than bitterness and political speculation.
“I remain Emma Igwe, spokesperson of ANYICHUKS, and my political position has not changed,” he said, calling for issue-based politics in Ebonyi State.
