A frontline All Progressives Congress support group in Abia State, the Concerned Progressives of Arochukwu and Ohafia, has declared support for the aspiration of Ifeanyi Elvis Ogbonna in the 2027 House of Representatives election for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency.
The group, in a statement signed by its General Secretary, Engr. Ifeanyi Iheaka, and made available to journalists in Umuahia on Monday, warned that the APC risks losing the constituency again if it denies Ogbonna the party’s ticket.
According to them, Ogbonna, who is an APC chieftain, business entrepreneur, and vibrant youth leader, has demonstrated rare capacity, popularity, and vision, which is positioning him as the best candidate to alter the political and developmental trajectory of the constituency.
“Anybody telling you to bring another candidate will spell doom for our party.
The APC has never won Arochukwu/Ohafia, but 2027 presents a golden opportunity.
From our findings, the only name on the lips of the people is Ifeanyi Ogbonna. He is the consensus choice, and his candidacy is beyond party lines”, the group said.
The group emphasised that Ogbonna’s wide acceptance across Arochukwu and Ohafia makes him unbeatable and described him as “a bridge-builder whose strong ties with stakeholders across political divides will translate into massive grassroots mobilisation.”
“Ogbonna has the political clout to win under any party, but his candidacy under the APC will bring good fortunes not only for our party in Arochukwu/Ohafia but also for the entire Abia North Senatorial District,” Iheaka continued. “He is not just another aspirant; he is the people’s mandate.”
The CPAO maintained that Ifeanyi Ogbonna’s strength lies not just in his popularity but also in his deep understanding of the developmental challenges facing the federal constituency.
“He has consistently shown that he understands the pains and expectations of our people. From youth unemployment to infrastructure decay, to insecurity and lack of opportunities, Ignis has both the business acumen and political networks to provide lasting solutions”, the group stated.
They urged APC stakeholders in the zone to close ranks and rally behind Ogbonna, pointing out that the likes of Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, and Minister of State for Labour Nkeiruka Onyejeocha have been working tirelessly to strengthen party unity in Abia. According to them, Ogbonna has already built strong relationships with these leaders, which will be critical for APC’s victory in 2027.
In what appears to be a strategic head start, the group disclosed that support structures have already been established across all wards in Ohafia and Arochukwu to ensure massive grassroots mobilisation ahead of the APC primaries.
“We have gone beyond rhetoric. We are on the ground. Our structures are alive in every ward, every village, and every polling unit,” Iheaka revealed. “This is not just about winning an election; it is about igniting hope and changing the political narrative of our people.”
The group also advised Ogbonna not to yield to political pressure or cheap blackmail, urging him to maintain his focus on the people’s welfare.
“Ogbonna must be clear about his objectives: to uplift the living standards of our people beyond mere legislative duties,” CPAO said, adding, “We expect him to attract dividends of democracy in infrastructure, education, employment opportunities, security, and youth empowerment. He has the network, he has the credibility, and above all, he has the heart for the people.”
The group reiterated its support for Ogbonna: “2027 will not be business as usual. The people have spoken, and the message is clear: no candidate can defeat Ifeanyi Ogbonna. The APC must seize this opportunity and ride with him to victory.”
Ogbonna has gradually emerged as a rising force in Abia politics. As a young business entrepreneur and community leader, he is viewed by many as a symbol of youthful leadership with the energy and vision to drive a new chapter of representation in Arochukwu/Ohafia.
Source : The Punch.