Ebonyi APC faces backlash over governor’s approval directive
As political tensions rise within the Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress, a new directive requiring aspirants to seek clearance from Governor Francis Nwifuru has sparked widespread criticism. Many party members and opposition figures argue that this move undermines democratic principles and restricts open competition. Bola Tinubu and other political actors have been mentioned in discussions about loyalty and endorsement. The controversy has led to debates about internal party democracy and the future of candidate selection in the state.
Key takeaways
- The Ebonyi APC leadership now requires all aspirants to get approval from Governor Francis Nwifuru before purchasing nomination forms.
- Critics, including Splendour Oko Eze, Paul Okorie, and Linus Okorie, have condemned the directive as anti-democratic and a threat to free and fair elections.
- The party chairman, Stanley Emegha, advised aspirants that acting without the governor’s approval is a “waste of resources.”
- Opposition parties and stakeholders argue that the move centralises power and discourages credible candidates from contesting.
- Supporters of the directive claim it rewards loyalty, while detractors warn it could entrench undemocratic practices and diminish party integrity.
