The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has turned a new leaf, shedding its internal differences to forge a united front as it gears up for the 2027 elections. Party officials and observers say the shift from rivalry to consensus reflects a deliberate effort to stabilise structures, rebuild trust, and present a united front capable of competing effectively.
At the centre of the reconciliation is Benjamin Kalu, the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, whose patient engagement with party stakeholders has helped to ease tensions across factions. Rather than pursuing confrontation, party leaders say Kalu adopted a consultative approach, reaching out to groups that had previously felt excluded from decision-making.
During the ward congresses held on February 25, 2026, in Bende, Kalu stressed that the party belonged to its members collectively, encouraging participation and shared ownership of outcomes. The process, described by party officials as harmonisation, allowed ward and local government leaders to emerge through consensus within the framework set by the national leadership.
The outcome, according to insiders, was a calmer exercise that contrasted sharply with past congresses marked by disputes and parallel structures. Another key figure in the reconciliation is Nkechi Nwaogu, a former senator widely known among party faithful as Mama Party.
Her role, supporters say, provided an emotional anchor to the process. Drawing on long-standing relationships within the party, she appealed to what colleagues described as the enlightened interest of members, urging restraint and unity. Her maternal presence and emphasis on dialogue helped bridge generational and ideological divides, complementing the legislative influence brought by Kalu.
The 2026 congresses have marked a turning point for the Abia APC, ushering in a new era that party leaders hail as a watershed moment. Potential flashpoints were addressed through dialogue and, where necessary, adjustments to timetables to ensure inclusivity.
By dissolving competing tendencies into a single structure aligned with national guidelines, the party avoided the disruptions that had previously weakened its grassroots base. With internal stability taking hold, the APC is now sharpening its focus on broader political objectives.
Party officials say unity is essential to strengthening ties between the South East and the federal centre, as well as positioning the party as a credible challenger to the ruling Labour Party in Abia State. The aim, they add, is to transform the APC from a marginal presence into a competitive force capable of winning statewide support.
The national leadership has been praised by state actors for backing the reconciliation process. Commendations were directed at the party’s National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, and the National Secretary, Surajudeen Ajibola Basiru, for what party members described as steadfast guidance and adherence to internal democratic principles.