By Samson Ezea

 Against the predictions of naysayers and skeptics who anticipated crisis, division, and a clash of interests, the Southeast Zonal Congress of the All Progressives Congress (APC), held in Enugu on March 25, 2026, turned out to be a defining moment of unity, discipline, and political maturity.

Rather than descend into turmoil, the Congress was marked by uncommon peace, camaraderie, and brotherhood, sending a strong signal that the party in the Southeast zone may have turned a new corner.

The venue, the iconic Presidential Hotel Enugu, witnessed a mammoth turnout of delegates, party leaders, and supporters from across Enugu, Anambra, Imo, Ebonyi, and Abia States. 

Adorned in party-branded attire and accompanied by music and fanfare, the crowd reflected a renewed enthusiasm and growing confidence in the APC’s prospects in the region.

Inside the packed multipurpose hall and across the sprawling premises, the sheer number and energy of attendees painted the picture of a party consolidating its base and asserting its presence in the Southeast like never before since its formation ahead of the 2015 general elections.

The arrival of key figures, including Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, Hope Uzodimma, Francis Nwifuru, and Benjamin Kalu, was greeted with resounding applause, setting the tone for a Congress defined by unity of purpose.

Notably, the speeches delivered by the leaders reflected a shared understanding, mutual respect, and a deliberate effort to project cohesion. However, it was the address by Governor Mbah that stood out, calm, unifying, and forward-looking.

He emphasized that the emergence of an eight-member Zonal Executive by consensus was not accidental, but a “clear demonstration of unity, maturity, and shared resolve.” 

He further noted that the successful conduct of ward, local government, state, and zonal congresses underscored the party’s growing strength and determination in the Southeast region.

More importantly, Mbah used the platform to reinforce a broader political direction, rallying support for Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections, while commending the President’s reform-driven leadership.

The adoption of the consensus mode of election, as announced by Governor Uzodimma in line with the party’s constitution, proved pivotal in ensuring a seamless process. It eliminated friction, aligned interests, and ultimately produced a unified outcome.

With motions moved and seconded by party leaders, including Deputy Speaker, Hon Benjamin Kalu and other stakeholders, the Congress smoothly ratified previous congress outcomes and adopted the new zonal executive without dissent.

The emergence of Dr. Ijeomah Arodiogbu as Vice Chairman (South East), alongside other key officers, further reinforced the image of a party choosing stability over strife.

Beyond the smooth proceedings, the real message of the Congress was unmistakable: the Southeast APC is reorganizing, closing ranks, and positioning itself as a serious force within Nigeria’s political equation.

For Governor Mbah and other regional leaders, the Congress was not just an administrative exercise, it was a strategic statement. A statement of readiness to integrate more firmly into national power dynamics, deepen internal cohesion, and work collectively toward future electoral victories.

If the unity displayed in Enugu is sustained, the Southeast APC may well be on the path to redefining its political relevance, transforming from a once-fragmented platform into a coordinated and competitive bloc.

* Ezea writes from Independence Layout, Enugu State