By Samson Ezea

The popular and iconic Michael Okpara Square, Independence Layout, Enugu, became agog and electrifying in the early hours of March 3, 2026. The venue was adorned with canopies, fliers, posters, billboards, and ribbons in the colours and symbols of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Everything was set for the Enugu State chapter’s congress of the ruling party.

From the VIP podium to the various canopies designated for the 17 local government areas, a mammoth crowd of enthusiastic party leaders, supporters, and members gathered in celebration. Music blared from the popular Ulaga Music Stand as attendees danced and savoured the festive atmosphere.

The roll call of party leaders was extensive, with virtually all political heavyweights in the state present to witness and participate in what many described as a unique APC State Congress.

The congress by all standards effectively united the various factions of the old APC, PDP, and Labour Party into one cohesive, resilient, and formidable APC in the state without rancour or division.
    
Much like the crossover of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC last year, an event endorsed by major political stakeholders across and beyond the state, the congress drew widespread participation. 
   
The message was unmistakable: Enugu State is firmly aligned with the APC ahead of 2027. The sheer calibre of attendees underscored the political significance of the gathering, particularly at the grassroots level.
    
The exercise commenced with the accreditation of delegates from wards and local government areas across the state and culminated in the election of new state executives.

The highlight was the arrival of Governor Mbah at about 1:30 p.m., after which he moved round the venue, greeting party faithful and acknowledging cheers from supporters.

Under the supervision of the APC National Committee for the Enugu State Congress, led by Hon. Loveth Isidi, delegates unanimously elected Dr. Martin Chukwunweike as State Chairman and Hon. Chukwudi Nnadozie as State Secretary, alongside 35 other executive members, forming a 37-man state executive committee.    
    
The national panel described the process as free, fair, transparent, and credible. Additionally, 15 zonal executives, five from each of the state’s three senatorial zones emerged.
    
In his address, Governor Mbah commended party leaders and faithful for conducting a peaceful and transparent exercise. He lauded the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu, noting that increased revenue inflows to states had facilitated ongoing development in Enugu.

“What we have done here together shows that we are all members of one big family. Enugu State is not just a model of governance; it is also a model for politics. The marriage of parties we witnessed is not one of convenience but a real and enduring union,” he said.
    
He congratulated the new executives and urged them to consolidate on the work of the Dr. Ben Nwoye-led Caretaker Committee. The governor further tasked them with effectively communicating the administration’s reforms and projects to the grassroots, stressing that nothing should be taken for granted ahead of future elections.
    
Highlighting the benefits of aligning with the centre, Mbah referenced the concessioning of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and its cargo terminal, the proposed extension of the railway to Enugu, the establishment of the South East Development Commission, and plans for a high-pressure gas pipeline, all of which, he noted, would unlock vast economic opportunities for the state.
     
In his acceptance speech, Dr. Chukwunweike pledged unwavering commitment to the party and assured members of his team’s resolve to deliver victory in future elections.

“We assure you that we will deliver. No governor has done just one tenure in Enugu State since 1999. Governor Mbah’s case will not be different, especially given his sterling performance,” he stated.

In his valedictory remarks, Dr. Ben Nwoye commended Governor Mbah for fostering unity among old and new party members. Similarly, the APC National Deputy Chairman (South), Chief Emma Enukwu, urged the new leadership to focus on mobilising and delivering votes at the polls.
     
Other dignitaries present included the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Hon. Uchenna Ugwu; Senator Osita Ngwu; Senator Kelvin Chukwu, all National Assembly and State Assembly members, local government chairmen Hon. Martins Oke; Deputy Governor Barr. Ifeanyi Ossai; Secretary to the State Government Prof. Chidiebere Onyia; and Chief of Staff Barr. Victor Udeh, Chief Ikeje Asogwa, Senator Chuka Utazi, Senator Ben Collins Ndu, Hon. Eugene Odo, Deputy Speaker Enugu State House of Assembly Hon. Ezenta  among other numerous political stakeholders.
     
With the successful and hitch-free conclusion of the ward, local government, and state congresses, the APC in Enugu State has demonstrated unity, organisational strength, and readiness for the political contests ahead.         
     
The consolidation of party structures and alignment with the federal government signal a strategic positioning of the state within the national political landscape.
     
As the 2027 elections approach, the outcome of the congress underscores a renewed political direction in Enugu State, one anchored on unity, integration, and sustained engagement with the centre for the perceived benefit of its people.