By Our correspondent
A significant wave of resignations has hit the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Anambra State following the exit of prominent governorship aspirant, Sir Paul Chukwuma, who recently joined the Young Progressives Party (YPP) to contest in the November 8 governorship election.
Paul Chukwuma resigned from the APC on the eve of the party’s primary election, citing irregularities and lack of internal democracy in the party
Among those who have joined in the fray of resignation is C J Ntomchukwu Esq, who stepped down as APC Legal Adviser for Ihiala Local Government Area and member of the party. According to Ntomchukwu, the reason for his resignation is the “manifest absence of internal democracy and commitment in the Anambra Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC)”.
Other members cited Chukwuma’s resignation and subsequent decision to join YPP as the reason for their own departure.
One of the letters of resignation, from Anthony Amechi Okeke of Ezekwueche Aguleri, read in part: “Please accept this letter as formal notice of my resignation from the All Progressives Congress (APC) party, effective immediately.
“This decision follows the resignation of my principal, Sir Paul Chukwuma, who was contesting for the party’s gubernatorial nomination in Anambra State. He has since joined another party, YPP, and I have chosen to follow suit in support of his endeavouppppprs.”
When Chukwuma was at the helm of his APC structure, he ensured the establishment of a state secretariat for Anambra State and offices in all 21 local government areas and 326 wards in the state. His dedication to building a robust party structure was evident in his efforts.
Chukwuma had expressed confidence in his ability to address the state’s governance challenges and provide solutions to steer Anambra toward progress.
During a media parley at his country home in Nneyi Umueri community, Anambra East Local Government Area, Chukwuma stated, “I’ve presented myself for the service of the people with a clear-cut blueprint on how to turn around the state in a positive light.
“My administration will do everything, including the provision of security within the ambit of the law, shunning every element of nepotism and adopting a holistic approach to security issues in the state.”
The mass exodus from APC is seen as a significant blow to the party’s chances in the upcoming governorship election.
As more members follow Chukwuma out the door, the party’s strength and unity are being put to the test.
In his resignation letter, Anthony Amechi Okeke expressed appreciation for the opportunities he had as an APC member but felt it was essential to align himself with Chukwuma’s new path.
He said,”I appreciate the opportunities I’ve had as a member of APC, but I feel it’s essential to align myself with my principal’s( Chukwuma’s) new path. I appreciate your understanding, and I wish the party continued success.”
The development has sent shockwaves through the state’s political landscape, with many wondering what this means for APC’s future in Anambra State.
