By Okey Maduforo
The commissioning of the newly rented secretariat of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Awka, Anambra State, by the party’s National Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje, took an unexpected turn as gubernatorial aspirants engaged in a heated exchange, vying for prominence in the presence of the party’s leadership.
Despite the tense atmosphere, the aspirants took time to pay tribute to one of their own, Sir Paul Chukwuma, who singlehandedly rented and furnished the expansive party headquarters, as well as secured offices in all 21 local government areas of Anambra State.
The verbal clash began when aspirants delivered their speeches, with their supporters frequently interrupting to outshout opposing candidates. Security operatives had to step in to prevent the situation from escalating into physical confrontations among party faithful.
The exchange intensified as the aspirants traded verbal jabs, disregarding decorum in the presence of Ganduje, members of the National Working Committee (NWC), and the National Executive Committee (NEC).
Chief John Bosco Onunkwo highlighted his long-standing commitment to the party, tracing his involvement from its early days as the Action Congress (AC) and later, the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN).
“We remained in this party through its evolution, enduring difficulties and name-calling. Today, our sacrifices have strengthened the party in Anambra. I assure you, Mr. Chairman, that you will witness my swearing-in as the next governor of Anambra State,” Onunkwo declared.
Former House of Representatives member, Chief Chukwuma Umeoji, countered Onunkwo, acknowledging Sir Paul Chukwuma’s contributions while positioning himself as the party’s best candidate.
“This new party office, made possible by our brother Sir Paul Chukwuma, marks the beginning of APC’s victory in Anambra. We are gathered here today to lay the foundation for APC to take over the state in the next election. By March next year, I will be sworn in as the governor of Anambra State,” Umeoji stated.
Renowned businessman and former PDP gubernatorial aspirant, Prof. Obiora Okonkwo, also emphasized his contributions to the party’s success.
“My supporters and I played a key role in securing legislative victories for APC’s predecessors, AC and ACN, in the Southeast. Our impact at the state and national levels is undeniable, and today, we are here to finalize our bid to lead Anambra,” Okonkwo asserted.
As Okonkwo spoke, the event briefly descended into chaos as supporters of different aspirants brandished posters and chanted slogans, leading to minor skirmishes. Security personnel swiftly intervened to restore order.
Nicholas Ukachukwu, another aspirant, used the moment to reaffirm his political stature, while also acknowledging Chukwuma’s generosity.
“I have been a force in Anambra politics for years. Today, we stand united to welcome our National Chairman, and I thank Paul Chukwuma for his generosity in providing this office. I urge everyone to support whoever emerges as the party’s flagbearer,” Ukachukwu remarked.
Responding to the unfolding drama, Sir Paul Chukwuma dismissed any claims of exclusion, emphasizing his role in strengthening the party.
“You cannot take over a house built by another person. Some say we should build a new structure, but why construct a new one when we already have a functional and well-furnished secretariat? What matters is contributing to the party’s growth. I am glad to be a part of APC’s transformation in Anambra, and those who invest in the party should also benefit from it,” he said.
Addressing the gathering, National Chairman Alhaji Abdullahi Ganduje urged party members to remain united and committed to the party’s electoral success.
“We must stay focused. The party leadership will provide the necessary strategies and logistics for the upcoming election. APC is here to change the narrative in Anambra and take over from the ruling APGA government. Today’s event is primarily to commission the party secretariat, which Sir Paul Chukwuma generously provided, and we commend him for that,” Ganduje stated.
Earlier, Anambra APC Chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, expressed concerns over what he described as the neglect of loyal party members in federal appointments.
“Despite our commitment to the party, many of our members have been sidelined in federal appointments. Even the welfare programs under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are being hijacked by the APGA-led government in Anambra. We urge our National Chairman to intervene and ensure our members are not left out,” Ejidike appealed.
The event, which was meant to celebrate a new milestone for APC in Anambra, ultimately highlighted the intense competition among aspirants ahead of the 2025 gubernatorial election. While unity remains a challenge, the party leadership hopes to harness the energy of its members toward a successful electoral outing.
Photos:
