The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State has been plagued by internal conflicts since 2018, when the Supreme Court barred the party from participating in the 2019 general elections in the state.
Despite efforts to recover, the party continues to face challenges. In an interview, Chibuike Ikenga, spokesperson for the Tony Okocha-led faction, delves into the genesis of the crisis, the roles of key figures like Rotimi Amaechi, and the party’s prospects for the 2027 elections.
Genesis of the APC Crisis in Rivers
Ikenga explained that the APC’s troubles stem from irreconcilable differences among its leadership, particularly between former Governor Rotimi Amaechi and other party leaders. “The party started strong but was weakened by mismanagement and leadership conflicts,” he said. These issues led to repeated election losses until 2023, when the APC secured victory in Rivers for the first time under President Tinubu’s leadership.
Factionalism in Rivers APC
Ikenga dismissed claims of factionalism within the APC. He clarified that individuals who lost party positions due to anti-party activities and inefficiency are merely disgruntled. “The party is supreme, and its National Executive Committee (NEC) has the authority to restructure leadership as needed,” he said. Ikenga emphasized that decisions made by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC), including dissolving state executives, were lawful and in line with party protocols.
Role of Rotimi Amaechi in the Crisis
Ikenga accused former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi of contributing significantly to the party’s struggles. According to him, Amaechi mismanaged the support he received, alienating loyalists and undermining the party’s unity. “He assumed he knew everything and sidelined others,” Ikenga stated. He also alleged that Amaechi collaborates with Governor Sim Fubara and opposes the APC’s progress in Rivers.
Anti-Party Activities and Allegations
Ikenga noted that during the 2023 elections, the Emeka Beke-led faction of the APC supported opposition candidate Atiku Abubakar instead of Tinubu. He described this as a clear case of anti-party behavior, which justified their removal from party leadership.
Relationship with Nyesom Wike
Ikenga defended the Okocha faction’s collaboration with Nyesom Wike, the FCT Minister. He argued that Wike’s role as a minister under Tinubu’s administration aligns with APC’s goals, despite Wike not being a party member. “Wike is implementing the APC’s Renewed Hope Agenda,” he added.
Rivers APC’s Prospects for 2027
Ikenga expressed optimism about APC’s chances in the 2027 elections, citing the PDP’s internal divisions as a potential advantage. “The APC is unified, while the PDP in Rivers is fragmented. This gives us an edge,” he said. He predicted that Governor Fubara’s strained relationship with his benefactors, including Wike, could further weaken the PDP’s position.
On Peter Odili and Nyesom Wike’s Fallout
Ikenga criticized former Governor Peter Odili for his public fallout with Wike, describing his comments as reckless and unnecessary. He suggested that Odili’s criticisms stem from personal grievances rather than genuine political concerns.
Way Forward for Rivers APC
Ikenga called for strict adherence to the rule of law as a solution to the party’s challenges. He emphasized the importance of respecting boundaries and following judicial decisions to ensure internal stability. “APC is on the right path, and we are committed to capturing Rivers in 2027,” he concluded.
The Rivers APC crisis highlights the complexities of political leadership and alignment in the state. However, the party remains confident in its ability to overcome these challenges and secure victory in future elections.
Be the first to comment