The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has dismissed claims that there is uncertainty over its governorship ticket for the 2027 election, insisting that Chief Eric Opah remains the party’s valid candidate.
The party’s position followed the circulation of a video in which some individuals challenged the outcome of the APC governorship primary election. The group alleged that Chief Henry Ikoh, who participated in the contest, was the rightful winner and urged the party to reverse the outcome. They also questioned Opah’s emergence, claiming he was not among the party’s long-standing stakeholders.
Speaking on behalf of the party in Umuahia, APC Publicity Secretary Uche Aguoru said the governorship primary held on May 21, 2026, produced Opah as the clear winner. He stated that the results showed a wide margin between the two leading contenders, with Opah securing far more votes than Ikoh.
According to the party, Opah has been an active member of the APC since joining in 2023 and has contributed to its growth through support for party activities, congresses and grassroots mobilisation across the state.
The APC also pointed to voting figures from Ikwuano Local Government Area, the home area of Ikoh, noting that Opah received more votes there than his rival. Party officials said the result reflected the level of support Opah enjoyed across different parts of the state.
The party leadership explained that while the National Working Committee is yet to release the final list of candidates, internal procedures are ongoing to ensure that all issues connected to the primary election are properly handled in line with party regulations.
Aguoru urged members and supporters not to be disturbed by the controversy, maintaining that the outcome of the primary election would remain unchanged because it was conducted through a democratic process.
He also alleged that some of the agitation surrounding the governorship ticket was being encouraged by political interests outside the APC who were seeking to create tension within the party ahead of the next election cycle.
The APC spokesman maintained that the party remains united and focused on preparations for the 2027 general elections. He said attempts to create division among members would not succeed, adding that the party leadership remains committed to preserving unity and strengthening its structure across Abia State.
The development comes as political parties in the state continue to prepare for the 2027 governorship contest, with internal party decisions increasingly attracting public attention and debate.