The All Progressives Congress (APC) is currently grappling with internal discord following the nomination of Barr. Emeka Nworgu as Chairman of the South East Development Commission (SEDC), a move reportedly influenced by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu. This decision has sparked significant backlash from the party's South East leadership and has intensified existing factional tensions within the ruling party.
Nomination Sparks Intra-Party Conflict
Initially, President Bola Tinubu had nominated Hon. Emeka Atuma for the SEDC chairmanship, a choice that garnered support from key South East APC figures, including Governors Hope Uzodimma of Imo State and Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State. However, within 24 hours, the presidency released a revised list, replacing Atuma with Nworgu. Sources indicate that this abrupt change was the result of lobbying by National Assembly leaders, notably Akpabio and Kalu, who sought to install their preferred candidates in strategic positions within the commission .
Allegations of Favoritism and Power Struggles
The revised list not only appointed Nworgu as Chairman but also included Sylvester Okoronkwo, Akpabio's Chief of Staff, as Executive Director of Corporate Services. Additional nominees, such as Stanley Ohajuruka and Clifford Ogbede, are reportedly aligned with Kalu. These appointments have been perceived by some party members as a consolidation of power by Akpabio and Kalu, sidelining other influential figures within the APC.
Reactions from Party Stakeholders
The South East APC leadership has expressed dissatisfaction with the revised nominations, viewing them as a disregard for the party's internal consensus and a potential source of division. A source within the party stated, "The initial list had the backing of our regional leaders. Altering it without broad consultation undermines our unity and the principles of collective decision-making."
Implications for APC Cohesion
This controversy adds to the APC's ongoing challenges in maintaining internal cohesion. The party has recently faced defections in Rivers State, with notable figures like former factional chairman Golden Chioma and ex-NDDC MD Ibim Semenitari leaving due to grievances over the party's reward system and internal dynamics .
Looking Ahead
As the Senate prepares to screen and confirm the SEDC nominees, the APC's leadership must navigate these internal disputes carefully to prevent further fragmentation. The outcome of this situation will likely have significant implications for the party's unity and its ability to effectively govern and implement its agenda in the South East region and beyond.
