A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from Ukwa East Local Government Area, Chief Williams Nwanguma, has petitioned the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, over alleged anti-party activities by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, in Abia State.
In the petition, titled: “Petition Against the Anti-Party Activity of Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha: The Honorable Minister of State for Labour and Employment,” Chief Nwaguma accused the minister of openly canvassing support for Abia State Governor Alex Otti, who is not a member of the APC.
According to Chief Nwaguma, at a state road flag-off event in Umunneochi Local Government Area on February 28, 2025, Hon. Onyejeocha publicly endorsed Governor Alex Otti’s re-election and urged the traditional rulers and residents of Umunneochi to support his second-term bid.
Chief Nwaguma expressed deep concern over the Minister’s actions, stating:
“The Governor of Abia State, not being a member of APC, makes the above call for re-election support by no less a person than a former Deputy Chief Whip of the 9th House of Representatives and a sitting member of the Federal Executive Council highly embarrassing to me and other well-meaning members of the party in the state and across the nation.”
The APC chieftain further warned that if the party fails to condemn and sanction the Minister’s conduct, it could have negative consequences for the APC’s performance in the 2027 general elections.
“It will paint a picture of a state chapter that is not serious about winning local and national elections, thereby subjecting our party to ridicule, contempt, and disrepute.”
Chief Nwanguma emphasized that the Abia APC is currently experiencing rapid growth, with many opposition figures defecting to the party in a bid to unseat Governor Otti, whom he accused of factionalizing the Labour Party and personalizing governance.
“It is sad, disheartening, and unacceptable for a high-ranking APC member like the Honorable Minister to not only entertain such thoughts but also publicly express support for a rival party’s candidate. Her actions are a direct betrayal of the efforts by APC leaders, stakeholders, and members who are working hard to strengthen the party in Abia State.”
Chief Nwanguma called on the National Working Committee (NWC) of the APC, through the National Chairman’s office, to objectively investigate the matter and impose appropriate sanctions if the allegations are found to be true.
“Handing down the necessary sanctions will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar acts of disloyalty as we prepare for the 2027 general elections.”
The petition is expected to stir reactions within the APC, particularly in Abia State, as party members await the response of the National Leadership.
