Rt Hon Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru Governor, Ebonyi State
APC Tickets Shake Ebonyi: Analysts Says Gov Nwifuru Remains Exceptional
—Ivo Tick Stalled As Okorie’s Chances Brightens
Governor Francis Nwifuru has ignited political fireworks in Ebonyi State after endorsing several incumbent lawmakers for return tickets ahead of the 2027 All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries, whil.e withholding decisions in contentious areas.
The political move played out during a series of APC stakeholders’ meetings held across three locations in Abakaliki, where party faithful were given the floor to decide who flies their ticket.
Proceedings kicked off in Ebonyi North Senatorial Zone, where Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi secured a smooth sail, clinching unanimous endorsement for a second term without opposition. The governor swiftly ratified the decision, citing total agreement among party leaders.
But the story took a dramatic turn in Ebonyi South, where Senator Anthony Okorie Ani faced outright rejection at the Ecumenical Centre. Angry stakeholders slammed his performance as “a colossal disgrace,” declaring it the worst representation the zone has witnessed.
The storm spread to the House of Representatives, as Dr. Nkemkanma Kama of Ohaozara/Onicha/Ivo Federal Constituency, was denied return ticket. Constituents said he fought the party as an opposition during the 2023 elections, adding that zoning factors also works against him.
In Ivo State Constituency, the process hit a deadlock and was suspended following an unresolved leadership rivalry between the people of Ishiagu and Akaeze communities. The issue ended consensus, leaving aspirants, including Dr. Chika Okorie, in uncertainty as consultations continue.
However, should Dr. Okorie eventually secures the ticket, she would emerge as yet another grassroots figure elevated through the inclusive and people driven leadership style of Governor Francis Nwifuru, which has continued to open the political space for ordinary citizens to rise.
Meanwhile, Ebonyi Central recorded at the Re-Meritona Hotel, had Senator Ken Eze and Comrade Chinedu Ogah both secured the nod to continue representing their constituencies.
Despite the rapid succession of meetings, several decisions remain pending, with Governor Nwifuru deferring contentious cases for further consultations among stakeholders on Friday.
From all that played out, Ebonyi South, remains the epicentre of the crisis as the younger brother of Honourable Minister of Works, Austin Umahi is seriously eyeing the senatorial seat which Engr David Umahi gave the incumbent, Prof Ani.
As consultations continue, political analysts say Governor Francis Nwifuru’s bold, exceptional, and strategic approach has not only reshaped internal party dynamics but also deepened inclusive governance, creating a level playing field where all stakeholders have a voice and a seat at the decision-making table.
