On Friday, September 13, the leadership crisis within the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) deepened as founder Chief Chekwas Okorie accused Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo of undermining the party.
Okorie’s remarks came amidst a heated dispute between Chief Edozie Njoku and Chief Victor Oye, which has been further fueled by Soludo’s alleged interference in the party’s internal matters.
Okorie reaffirmed his support for the Supreme Court’s ruling from March 23, 2023, which recognized Chief Njoku as the legitimate National Chairman.
He pointed out that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) also acknowledges Njoku as the rightful chairman, in accordance with the court’s decision. However, Okorie raised concerns about Soludo’s appointment of Sly Ezeonwuka as national chairman, despite the court’s nullification of that action.
He emphasized that multiple court rulings, including those from the FCT High Court and Court of Appeal, have affirmed Njoku’s leadership. Okorie urged party members to stay loyal to the legitimate leadership, warning that Soludo’s actions might have lasting negative effects on the party.
“It’s heartbreaking to see a progressive party reduced to a cash cow by political brigands,” Okorie stated. “APGA became the only party in Nigeria where a Treasurer was imposed as national chairman without a national convention. This is executive rascality by a governor who swore to uphold the constitution and rule of law.”
He continued, “The rebellious faction in APGA believes that what money can’t do doesn’t exist, but authentic APGA believes that what God can’t do doesn’t exist. Nigerians who care about democracy should join in urging Governor Soludo to allow APGA to function properly.”
