Ukorebi Esien | June 3, 2026
UMUAHIA: Abia State is witnessing growing political tension within the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) following calls by pro-democracy and advocacy groups for the party to affirm Hon. Hapuruchi Ogadinma as its consensus candidate for the Obingwa/Osisioma/Ugwunagbo Federal Constituency seat ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Two advocacy organisations, the Nigeria League for Good Governance (NLG) and the Forum of Abia Democrats (FABD), have urged the party leadership to uphold what they described as the “people’s mandate” and zoning arrangement in resolving the outcome of the party’s recently held and inconclusive primary election.
In a joint statement issued after a meeting in Abuja on Sunday and signed by NLG President and FABD Convener, Surveyor Samuel Aguiyi, the groups warned that failure to adopt a consensus-driven approach could undermine unity within the party’s Abia State structure.
According to them, the leadership of the Nigeria Democratic Congress must act decisively to avoid internal divisions capable of affecting its electoral fortunes in the constituency.
The groups specifically called for the affirmation of Hon. Hapuruchi Ogadinma as the party’s House of Representatives flag-bearer for the constituency, arguing that his popularity and grassroots acceptance position him as the most viable candidate for victory in the 2027 polls.
They further maintained that Ogadinma enjoys overwhelming support among party members and constituents across Obingwa, Osisioma Ngwa, and Ugwunagbo local government areas, stressing that this should guide the party’s final decision.
“The ability and capacity of Hon. Hapuruchi Ogadinma to secure victory in the forthcoming general election cannot be questioned, given his competence, educational background, and leadership experience,” the groups stated.
They added that zoning remains a key factor in political balance within the constituency, insisting that the arrangement favours Agalaba in Obingwa area of Abia South Senatorial District.
The advocacy groups also urged the party to avoid any action that could deepen tensions following what they described as an inconclusive primary election conducted last Friday.
They cautioned that failure to manage the situation properly could weaken the party’s chances across the three local government areas that make up the federal constituency.
While reaffirming their position, the groups described Ogadinma as a figure capable of driving development and legislative progress if given the party’s ticket, adding that his candidacy represents what they termed a “new chapter of purposeful leadership” for the constituency.
As discussions continue, stakeholders within the party are expected to engage further on how to resolve the disputed primary and determine a unified candidate ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
The situation has further highlighted emerging power dynamics within the Abia political space, as aspirants and interest groups position themselves ahead of what is expected to be a highly competitive election season.
0 comments: