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The weekend Enugu APC Congress has sparked tensions across the 17 local government areas (LGAs) of Enugu State. Long-standing party members accused some stakeholders of hijacking the congress process, resulting in discontent among old APC members and defectors from the Labour Party (LP).
The allegations have highlighted deeper fissures within the party and raised questions about adherence to internal power-sharing agreements reportedly directed by Governor Peter Mbah.
Alleged Violation of Power-Sharing Agreement
Sources claim that the congress outcome violated a previously agreed power-sharing arrangement, intended to maintain unity among political blocs. The directive reportedly specified a 60–40 ratio, favoring the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) while ensuring significant representation for old APC members and LP defectors.
At the ward level, 26 executive positions were to be distributed, with PDP members receiving 17 slots and old APC/LP members sharing 9 positions. Similarly, at the local government level, PDP members were expected to occupy 17 out of 28 executive committee roles, leaving 11 positions for old APC and LP members.
However, reports suggest the agreement was widely flouted. In LGAs such as Enugu South, Oji River, and Igbo-Eze North, PDP members allegedly took up to seven additional positions meant for old APC and LP members.
An aggrieved member, speaking on condition of anonymity, said:
“Only four of our members were selected, while PDP took all the other positions. I was a former APC chairman in my LGA, yet I was relegated to an ex-officio role. This is deeply disappointing.”
Another member from Enugu West Senatorial District added:
“We were given just three positions out of the 11 allotted to us. Is this how we intend to work as a team?”
Retention of Principal Offices and Emerging Discontent
Further complaints have focused on the alleged retention of all principal offices by PDP members. Old APC and LP members reportedly received only assistant or less influential roles, leaving many feeling sidelined.
A prominent stakeholder said:
“I am highly disappointed that LGA executive chairmen failed to implement the governor’s instructions. If such directives can be disregarded now, one wonders what will happen after the 2027 elections.”
Political analysts warn that these developments could deepen divisions within the Enugu APC Congress, potentially undermining the party’s cohesion and effectiveness in future elections.
Governor Mbah Praises Peaceful Conduct
Despite the allegations, Governor Peter Mbah commended the congress for being peaceful and democratic. Speaking on the exercise, he stated that the party demonstrated unity and adherence to democratic principles, even amid the political tensions.
Solomon Funkekeme, Chairman of the APC National Panel for Ward and Local Government Congresses in Enugu State, also praised the congress:
“The governor has shown leadership by promoting unity. The conduct of the congress was marvellous, with no dissenting voices. Other local governments should take a cue from Nkanu East to sustain peace and harmony.”
The governor’s praise contrasts with the dissatisfaction voiced by old APC members and LP defectors, illustrating the tension between official endorsements and grassroots grievances.
Historical Context: APC in Enugu State
The APC has been working to consolidate power in Enugu State, traditionally a PDP stronghold. Political analysts note that local government congresses play a critical role in determining party leadership, candidate selection, and internal alliances.
In recent years, APC has absorbed several defectors from the PDP and LP to strengthen its local presence. The 60–40 power-sharing agreement was designed to integrate these blocs, ensuring representation and mitigating factional disputes.
Observers say ignoring this agreement risks alienating influential members and creating lasting divisions, which could affect the party’s performance in the 2027 general elections.
Implications for the 2027 Elections
With general elections approaching in 2027, the Enugu APC Congress rift could have serious consequences. Political analysts warn that unresolved grievances may lead to:
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Reduced voter enthusiasm among old APC members
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Internal sabotage or lack of coordination during campaigns
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Strengthening of opposition parties in LGAs where disputes are most acute
One political strategist stated:
“If the party does not address these grievances, it risks losing credibility and influence in critical local government areas. Unity is essential for APC to compete effectively in Enugu.”
Reactions from Party Members
Several party members and stakeholders expressed frustration with the alleged hijacking of the congress:
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Enugu South LGA member: “We were promised representation, but our voices were ignored. This undermines the integrity of the party.”
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Enugu West Senatorial District member: “Our participation is reduced to a formality. We need genuine inclusion to sustain unity.”
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Prominent stakeholder: “Ignoring the governor’s directive sets a dangerous precedent. It raises doubts about leadership accountability within the party.”
These reactions reflect growing concerns about internal democracy and adherence to party rules, which are essential for maintaining cohesion and credibility.
Moving Forward: Calls for Dialogue and Reconciliation
Party leaders are expected to hold meetings to address grievances, restore trust, and ensure fair representation in all LGAs. Political observers emphasize that dialogue between old APC members, LP defectors, and PDP allies is critical to prevent factionalism.
Observers also note that the Enugu APC Congress controversy highlights broader challenges in Nigerian politics, where power-sharing agreements are often symbolic rather than enforceable.
Conclusion
The Enugu APC Congress has exposed tensions within the party, with old members alleging a hijacked process and unfair allocation of positions. While Governor Peter Mbah and national panel leaders praise the exercise for being peaceful and democratic, grassroots grievances reveal potential fault lines that could influence the party’s future electoral performance.
Resolving these disputes through dialogue, transparency, and adherence to agreed power-sharing arrangements will be crucial for the APC to maintain unity and strengthen its political position in Enugu State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
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