The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje, has urged South-East states to align with the ruling party to establish stronger ties with the central government.
Speaking in Awka on Saturday at the inauguration of the APC state secretariat—procured, equipped, and furnished by governorship aspirants Paul Chukwuma and Prof. Obiora Okonkwo—Ganduje emphasized the need for the South-East to integrate into the national political landscape.
His remarks come as APC aspirants, including Chukwuma, Okonkwo, Nicholas Ukachukwu, Chukwuma Umeoji, and Johnbosco Onunkwo, pledged to secure victory for the party in the November 8 governorship election if given the ticket.
Addressing party supporters, Ganduje praised the Igbo for their nationalistic spirit, stating that their economic presence across Nigeria underscores their integral role in the nation. He encouraged them to connect with the APC, likening their current political position to being “under generator power” rather than being linked to the “national grid.”
“We are here to inaugurate the party secretariat and engage stakeholders to strategize for the future. Our goal is clear—we aim for the Government House,” he said.
He further invoked historical references, recalling the era when Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu was granted a pardon in the spirit of national unity and the legacy of Nnamdi Azikiwe. Ganduje affirmed his commitment to strengthening the South-East’s role in national governance, beginning with Anambra.
He also reassured party members of President Bola Tinubu’s dedication to unity and reform, highlighting improvements in security, oil production, refinery operations, and currency stability as evidence of his leadership.
“We are witnessing the impact of these reforms. Tinubu is a leader who focuses on fixing broken systems. Now is the time for you to connect politically and be part of the transformation,” he added.
During the event, party aspirants showcased their influence by mobilizing large numbers of supporters. Among them, Chukwuma and Okonkwo emerged as the most popular choices among party members.
Chukwuma declared, “Today marks the beginning of APC’s victory in Anambra. Our national chairman has promised to connect us to the center, and I am committed to making that a reality.”
Okonkwo, on his part, expressed confidence in his ability to lead a successful campaign, saying, “Anambra APC has changed, and I am ready to run the strongest campaign that will deliver an APC governor. Give me the ticket, and I will hand you the certificate of occupancy for the Government House.”