The People First Mandate has congratulated all the winners of the just concluded APC Federal House of Representatives primaries across Abia North.
In a release endorsed by Dr Uchenna Kalu Akpi, the group lauded Chief Nicholas Ukwa on his emergence as the APC candidate for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu on his emergence for Bende Federal Constituency, and Rt. Hon. Nkiru Onyejiocha on her emergence for Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency.
According to the group, their victories reflect the confidence and trust reposed in them by party members and stakeholders, and we wish them success as preparations begin for the 2027 general elections.
The group however noted: “As our great party continues consultations ahead of the Abia North Senate position, we strongly believe this is the time to uphold the spirit of equity, fairness, inclusion, and political balance across the zone.
“Today, Bende extraction already occupies the Bende Federal Constituency seat through Rt. Hon. Ben Kalu and also retains the influential position of APC State Chairman through Hon. Chijioke Chukwu. Ohafia extraction has produced the candidate for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency through Chief Nicholas Ukwa, while Umunneochi also has Rt. Hon. Nkiru Onyejiocha as the party’s candidate.
“This clearly shows that almost every major bloc within Abia North has been politically accommodated under the present arrangement, with Arochukwu Local Government Area remaining the only major component yet to be carried along.
“In all fairness and political balance, it will not be just or equitable for another candidate from Bende extraction to occupy the Senate position again while Arochukwu remains completely left out.”
The People First Mandate further pointed out that equity is one of the strongest foundations of political stability, unity, and electoral success, adding that a balanced arrangement will not only strengthen APC internally but will also deepen grassroots acceptance and improve the party’s chances in the main election.
“More importantly, the party already has in Dr. Philips Nto a highly qualified, experienced, credible, and widely accepted aspirant from Arochukwu.
“Dr. Philips Nto is eminently qualified academically, administratively, and politically. As a former Commissioner for Finance, former Provost of ASCETA, respected academic, and development-oriented administrator, he has demonstrated competence, leadership capacity, and commitment to public service over the years.
“Beyond qualifications, Dr. Nto represents fresh energy, inclusiveness, accessibility, and a people-oriented style of leadership that resonates strongly with many people across Abia North today.
At a time when the people are calling for fairness, renewed direction, and broader participation, presenting a credible candidate like Dr. Philips Nto from Arochukwu will not only satisfy the principle of equity but will also position APC strongly ahead of the general election,” the group argued.
