In a bold political move aimed at reshaping the political landscape of Abia State, the Member representing Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chris Nkwonta, has emerged as a key force driving the revival and expansion of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia-South Senatorial District.
Hon. Nkwonta has since after leaving People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in October 2024, led an aggressive grassroots mobilization campaign, particularly in Ukwa-East and Ukwa-West, where the APC previously had little presence. Leveraging his strong personal influence and wide grassroots connections, he has successfully positioned the APC as a growing and credible political alternative in the zone.
In a meeting held today (Sunday March 30, 2025) which brought together key political figures in Abia South and beyond, ended with a seven-point communiqué; highlighting key resolutions and declarations. They include:
1. A vote of confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his progressive leadership, particularly his efforts in strengthening national security, economic reform, infrastructure, and the establishment of the South-East Development Commission.
2. Commendation of the President for appointing Dr. Chukwuemeka Ngozichineke Wogu, a son of Abia-South, as the inaugural Chairman of the South-East Development Commission.
3. A vote of confidence in the National Chairman of the APC, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and the party’s National Working Committee, for their effective leadership.
4. Recognition of the efforts of House of Representatives Speaker Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and Deputy Speaker Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu in supporting development initiatives in Abia-South.
5. A call for unity and collaboration among all party members, urging an end to internal bickering and factionalism to ensure collective success.
6. A resolution encouraging all members to become active canvassers and mobilizers to grow the party’s base ahead of the 2027 general elections.
7. A strong vote of confidence in Hon. Chris Nkwonta, urging him to continue to serve as the rallying point for APC activities in Abia-South Senatorial District.
Earlier in his speech, Hon. Nkwonta reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring APC’s dominance in the state by 2027. He emphasized that aligning Abia State with the national political mainstream is essential for attracting meaningful federal appointments and development projects.
“If we come together and support President Bola Tinubu in 2027, Abia will no longer be sidelined in federal appointments and development,” Nkwonta stated. “Instead of the Minister of State slot we currently have, we can secure a full-fledged ministerial position for Abia.”
He also defended the economic reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration, such as the removal of fuel subsidy and floating of the naira. While acknowledging the short-term difficulties these policies may cause, he maintained they are necessary for long-term economic stability and growth.
Marc Wabara, a notable APC chieftain in the state, through a representative, declared that the APC is becoming the political home for serious-minded politicians in Abia. “With strategic defections like that of Hon. Nkwonta, the APC is positioning itself as the party to beat in 2027,” he said.
Other party leaders, including; Hon. Don Ubani, Hon. Uzor Azubuike, Rt. Hon. Emeka Stanley and Chief Sylvanus Nwaji, among others, also hailed Nkwonta’s leadership, describing him as a catalyst for positive change and a unifying figure in the party’s Abia-South structure. They called on party members to remain focused, united, and committed to the common goal of delivering victory in the next general elections.
With growing support across the region and increasing influence within the party, Hon. Chris Nkwonta is quickly becoming the face of APC’s 2027 electoral strategy in Abia State—an ambition that, if successful, could redefine the state’s political alignment for years to come.
