Okonkwo Samuel
By Chief Edozie Njoku, National Chairman of APGA
To the Esteemed Members of APGA NWC, the People of Anambra State, and the Press:
- Greetings from the office of the National Chairman of APGA, Chief Edozie Njoku. Chief Njoku has mandated the National Working Committee (NWC) to convey his continued support and confidence in this special Committee led by APGA National Secretary, Alhaji Muhyideen Imam.
- This press briefing aims to communicate the APGA NWC’s stance on recent developments concerning the forthcoming Local Government elections in Anambra State, particularly those involving the Anambra State Independent Electoral Commission (ANSIEC).
- On August 7, 2024, APGA notified ANSIEC (acknowledged on August 9, 2024) that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on July 9, 2024, recognized Chief Edozie Njoku and other executives elected at the Owerri Convention of May 31, 2019, as the legitimate leaders of APGA, following two Court of Appeal judgments. This recognition concluded a five-year legal battle.
- In the same communication, APGA introduced Hon. Chief Ikechukwu Hillary Ejesieme (Acting Chairman of APGA Anambra State) and Hon. Sams Mogbo (Acting Secretary of APGA Anambra State) as the official representatives of APGA in Anambra State and requested that ANSIEC acknowledge them in matters concerning the LG polls.
- The leadership change in APGA was also duly communicated to the Anambra State commands of State Security Services and the Nigerian Police Force.
- Despite these notifications, on August 15, 2024, Hon. Chief Ikechukwu Hillary Ejesieme and Hon. Sams Mogbo were barred and harassed by thugs at an Interactive Session with State Chairmen of Political Parties and Stakeholders, allegedly on ANSIEC and the Anambra State Government’s instructions.
- It appears that APGA officials have been targeted on the orders of Prof. Chukwuma Soludo, the governor of Anambra State.
- We are forced to conclude that recent attempts to amend the newly enacted Anambra State Electoral Law are concerning. Many citizens have expressed dismay at the governor’s actions, which seem driven by a desire for dictatorial power.
- Despite Chief Njoku’s conciliatory efforts, Governor Soludo has continued actions aimed at diminishing APGA to prevent the party from fielding candidates in the upcoming LGA elections.
- Chief Njoku and the NWC urge all APGA members to rise to the occasion and demonstrate their commitment to democracy.
- APGA supporters in Anambra State are encouraged to engage with their communities to reawaken APGA’s spirit. Any unconstitutional attempts to hinder APGA’s participation in the LG polls will be met with resistance.
- We will not allow anyone to deny the people the benefits and good intentions of the new APGA.
- We are pleased to announce that within a month of his recognition, Chief Edozie Njoku has toured 18 states, promoting peace and progress.
- In each state, the love for APGA has been evident. The current leadership is committed to prioritizing the party’s interests over personal gains.
- We appeal to Governor Soludo to acknowledge APGA’s role in his political success and to support the party’s rebirth. APGA calls you “father”; do not contribute to its demise.
- History has not been kind to those who oppose the people’s will.
Okoro Chinedum Benedict, National Administrative Secretary, APGA
