The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, has declared the party’s intent to wrest control of Rivers State from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) by 2027. Ganduje made this statement during the inauguration of the party’s state working committee in Port Harcourt on Saturday.
Accompanied by top party officials, Ganduje emphasized the importance of expanding APC’s influence in the South-South region. “Our target is to bring Rivers into the APC fold, increasing our presence in the zone to three states,” he said.
Victor Giadom, the APC’s national vice chairman for the South-South, echoed Ganduje’s sentiments. Addressing attendees, Giadom stated that the party is gearing up to take over the state, signaling renewed momentum in Rivers ahead of the next election cycle.
The inauguration, however, was mired in legal controversy. The APC’s National Working Committee (NWC) currently recognizes the Tony Okocha-led state executive, which was sworn in by the national legal adviser during the event. Yet, a court ruling remains in effect recognizing Emeka Beke as the legitimate state chairman. The judgment has not been vacated, raising questions about its implications for the party’s activities heading into 2025.
In his vote of thanks, the leader of the new Exco praised his team for their efforts and pledged to build on their success. Despite the legal uncertainties, the APC’s leadership insists their focus remains on mobilizing for victory in Rivers.
The party’s ambition underscores its broader goal of consolidating power in the region, but unresolved internal disputes may pose challenges ahead.
