A fresh controversy has erupted within the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) after a political group questioned the membership status of the party’s governorship candidate, Chief Eric Opah, deepening existing divisions ahead of the 2027 general elections. The development is the latest in a series of disputes that have trailed the party’s governorship primary in the state.
The group alleged that Opah was not a recognized member of the APC in Abia and demanded clarification from party leaders regarding his emergence as the party’s governorship flag bearer. According to the group, transparency and adherence to party rules are essential to maintaining the confidence of members and supporters.
The controversy comes weeks after several grassroots organizations and youth groups openly rejected the outcome of the APC governorship primary, describing Opah’s emergence as an imposition. The groups argued that the process failed to reflect the wishes of party members and warned that unresolved grievances could weaken the APC’s electoral prospects in the state.
Party stakeholders have expressed concern that the growing internal disputes could further widen existing cracks within the Abia APC. The state chapter has recently been grappling with leadership disagreements and factional tensions involving prominent party figures, raising fears about party unity ahead of the next election cycle.
Supporters of Opah, however, have maintained that his emergence followed due process and reflected the outcome of the party’s primary election. They insist that the businessman remains the duly elected candidate of the APC and have urged members to close ranks in the interest of the party’s success in 2027.
Political observers believe that how the APC leadership handles the latest dispute could play a significant role in determining the party’s cohesion and competitiveness in Abia State. Calls have continued for dialogue and reconciliation among aggrieved members to prevent further divisions and strengthen the party ahead of future electoral contests.
