The All Progressives Congress (APC) has elected new zonal executives for its South-East chapter, with Ijeoma Arodiogbu emerging as Zonal Chairman and Oby Ajih as Zonal Woman Leader, alongside six other officials, in a move aimed at strengthening the party’s structure ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The zonal congress, which took place in Enugu State, brought together party leaders, delegates, and stakeholders from across the South-East region. The exercise was conducted using a consensus arrangement, a method that allows candidates to emerge through agreement among party leaders rather than through a contested election.
Party officials explained that the consensus approach was adopted to ensure unity and avoid internal disputes that could weaken the party’s chances in future elections. They noted that maintaining harmony within the party is critical as political activities begin to intensify ahead of the 2027 polls.
In addition to Arodiogbu and Ajih, other members of the zonal executive committee were also selected to fill key positions within the party’s regional structure. The new leadership is expected to coordinate party activities, mobilise support, and strengthen grassroots engagement across the five South-East states.
Leaders at the event emphasised the importance of building a united front in the region, which has traditionally posed challenges for the APC in terms of electoral success. They expressed confidence that the newly elected executives would play a vital role in repositioning the party and expanding its influence.
Stakeholders also highlighted the need for increased collaboration among party members and urged the new leaders to prioritise inclusiveness and effective communication. They stressed that reconnecting with the grassroots and addressing local concerns would be key to winning the trust of voters in the region.
The congress was attended by prominent party figures, including serving and former public office holders, who reiterated their commitment to strengthening the APC’s presence in the South-East. They described the peaceful conduct of the exercise as a positive sign of growing unity within the party.
Political observers note that the APC’s decision to adopt consensus in selecting its zonal executives reflects a broader strategy to minimise internal conflicts and maintain stability within its ranks. However, some analysts argue that while consensus can promote unity, it may also raise concerns about inclusiveness and internal democracy if not managed transparently.
The emergence of the new executives comes at a time when political parties across the country are intensifying preparations for the 2027 general elections. For the APC, consolidating its structure in the South-East is seen as a critical step toward improving its electoral performance in the region.
As the new leadership settles into office, expectations are high that they will work to strengthen party cohesion, attract new members, and build a more competitive platform. Their performance in the coming months is likely to play a significant role in shaping the APC’s prospects in the South-East ahead of the next election cycle.
