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APC, PDP Leaders Unite at Lawmaker Erondu’s Mega Empowerment Programme in Abia

The lawmaker representing Obingwa-West State Constituency in the Abia State House of Assembly, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, has empowered hundreds of Abians with motorcycles, vehicles and cash support as part of activities marking his birthday celebration.

The large-scale empowerment programme, which attracted political stakeholders and community leaders across party lines, featured the distribution of more than 150 motorcycles and several vehicles to beneficiaries, alongside other support initiatives designed to boost small businesses, create employment opportunities and improve livelihoods.

Beyond the distribution of empowerment items, the event also highlighted an unusual show of political unity as leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and other political groups converged under what participants described as a “rainbow coalition.”

Speaking at the event, the celebrant, Erondu Uchenna Erondu Jnr, said the empowerment programme was part of his broader commitment to improving the economic wellbeing of the people through sustainable opportunities. He emphasized that empowering youths, women and vulnerable members of society remains central to his vision of community development.

He urged beneficiaries to utilize the 150 motorcycles, 15 vehicles and other support items effectively to grow their businesses and support their families.

The lawmaker also reaffirmed his support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, while appealing to the President to allow the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, PhD, LLD, CFR to return to Abia State to contest the 2027 governorship election as the sole candidate of the rainbow coalition in order to reposition the state for greater development.

Representing the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, Rev. Emma Trumps Eke noted that empowerment initiatives such as the one organised by Erondu Jnr have helped reduce youth restiveness by providing economic opportunities and encouraging self-reliance.

Former Deputy Governor of Abia State, Dr. Chris Alozie Akomas, in his remarks, commended the Uhie-born legislator and announced additional financial assistance to beneficiaries and stakeholders. These includes cash donations to individuals and groups drawn from various local government areas.

Also speaking, the Abia State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, described Erondu Jnr as a rare leader committed to the development of his people. He also acknowledged the contributions of former Governor Okezie Victor Ikpeazu PhD, and former Deputy Governor Dr. Chris Alozie Akomas in delivering democratic dividends to the people.

Chairman of the occasion, Dee Sam Nkire, expressed gratitude to God for blessing the people of Obingwa with what he described as a selfless leader committed to public service. Quoting Nigerian nationalist Nnamdi Azikiwe, the Elder statesman said leaders who remember their people and treat them well will always earn the trust and support of the electorate.

He described Erondu as a leader with impeccable character who has consistently demonstrated compassion for the less privileged in society.

Meanwhile Senator Nkechi Nwaogu, has lauded the scale of the empowerment programme, noting that it was uncommon for a first-term state lawmaker to undertake such a far-reaching initiative. She urged the people to continue supporting Erondu Jnr, stating that his performance had already demonstrated his capacity for higher responsibilities.

The Chairman of Chairmen (PDP) in the Rainbow Coalition, Hon. Barrister Emeka Onyenso, described the gathering as historic, noting that it was one of the rare occasions where members of the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party jointly supported a grassroots empowerment initiative in Abia State.

Earlier, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Hon. Chief Chidiebere Ihenyirimmadu, commended the lawmaker for his sustained commitment to grassroots empowerment. He recalled that Erondu Jnr had carried out a similar initiative barely three months earlier, noting that the programme reflects a genuine desire to uplift the people.

Also speaking, an APC chieftain, Dr. Nyerere Chinenye Anyim, commended the celebrant for remembering the needs of the people, expressing hope that the items distributed would significantly improve the economic conditions of the beneficiaries.

Former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Christopher O. Enweremadu, noted that the empowerment initiative stood out because it placed no financial burden on beneficiaries, unlike some schemes that eventually become liabilities.

Similarly, former member of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Uzo Azubuike, stated that generosity is not a function of wealth but of goodwill. He commended Erondu Jnr for promoting unity across political divides and urged the people to continue supporting him.

Nigerian Ambassador-Designate to the Kingdom of Spain and former Governor of Abia State, His Excellency, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu, was represented at the event by his wife, Her Excellency, Dr. (Mrs.) Nkechi Carol Ikpeazu.

PRESS RELEASE

RE: FALSE CLAIMS OF CANDIDATE ENDORSEMENT BY THE STATE WORKING COMMITTEE (SWC)

The attention of the State Working Committee (SWC) of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abia State Chapter, has been drawn to a press statement credited to a governorship aspirant, Chief Mascot Uzor Kalu, alleging that the SWC is involved in a planned meeting convened to endorse a particular aspirant for the party’s governorship ticket.

The SWC wishes to categorically state that this allegation is entirely false, misleading, and without any basis.

For the avoidance of doubt, the State Working Committee has not endorsed any aspirant for the governorship ticket or for any elective position whatsoever. Furthermore, the SWC is not constitutionally empowered to endorse candidates in the manner being alleged. Our responsibility is to provide a neutral administrative platform that guarantees fairness and credibility in the party’s processes.

The only endorsement ever made collectively by the party structure at this level remains that of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in line with our national obligations and party cohesion.

We reiterate unequivocally that neither the SWC nor the enlarged State Executive Committee (EXCO) has endorsed any aspirant at any level.

Under the leadership of the State Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu, the APC in Abia State remains firmly committed to internal democracy. We are dedicated to ensuring that all aspirants are given a level playing field, and that the forthcoming primaries will be conducted in a free, fair, transparent, and credible manner.

While it is not uncommon in the political process for aspirants to raise concerns sometimes as a means of seeking reassurance or gaining strategic advantage, we urge all stakeholders to refrain from spreading unfounded claims capable of causing unnecessary tension within the party.

For clarity, the SWC may attend meetings or events convened by party leaders, stakeholders, or affiliated structures in the course of its duties if invited. However, such participation must not be misconstrued as endorsement, as the EXCO will at all times operate strictly within the bounds of its constitutional responsibilities and remain neutral in all contestations.

As a committee we are focused on delivering victory at all levels for the APC in the coming elections and to ensure that Abia State APC remains united, focused, and committed to delivering a credible electoral process that reflects the will of our members.

Signed:
Uche Aguoru
Publicity Secretary
APC, Abia State Chapter

CITY BOY MOVEMENT ANNOUNCES LEADERSHIP CHANGES IN ABIA

The Abia State Chapter of the City Boy Movement has announced a series of leadership changes and new appointments across key structures of the organization, as part of efforts to strengthen coordination and deepen grassroots engagement.

The directive, contained in an official memorandum dated April 10, 2026, was issued by the State Director, Mayor Lucky Igbokwe, and addressed to all State Executives, Local Government Area (LGA) Coordinators, Zonal Leaders, and Strategic Units.

According to the memorandum, the changes take immediate effect and are aimed at repositioning the movement for greater impact across Abia State.

Key Leadership Changes

The newly announced appointments include:

Isuikwuato LGA: Joseph Odomuko has been appointed as LGA Coordinator, replacing Okechukwu Henry Okorie.

Strategy & Planning Unit: Nathanial Majesty Idam Elekwa takes over from Daphne Osakwe.

Obingwa LGA: Hon. Lazarus Enyinnaya Nwamaghinna replaces Sunday Hanson Amaechi as LGA Coordinator.

Ugwunagbo LGA: Esiaba Chinkereze has been named the new LGA Coordinator, succeeding Erica Godwin Ezenwoke.

Directive for Immediate Handover

The memorandum also directed all outgoing office holders to carry out an immediate and proper handover of responsibilities, materials, and relevant documents to their successors.

Mayor Igbokwe emphasized that the transition process must be seamless and conducted in the best interest of the Movement, underscoring the need for unity and continuity in leadership.

Strengthening the Movement

Observers say the restructuring reflects a strategic move by the City Boy Movement to consolidate its grassroots presence and enhance operational efficiency across the state.

With these changes, the Abia Chapter is expected to intensify its activities and expand its influence as it positions itself for greater political and social impact.

The leadership reiterated its commitment to discipline, coordination, and service, calling on all members to support the new appointees in delivering on the Movement’s objectives.

OFUJI MOVEMENT Concludes Ward-to-Ward Tour in Grand Style

By Gabriel Aguwa Paul ()

Residents of Bende Federal Constituency have witnessed a season of renewed hope as the Chima Anyaso Foundation concluded its OFUJI Movement ward-to-ward outreach across the constituency.

The humanitarian tour, which covered the 13 wards of Bende Federal Constituency, came to a grand conclusion on Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, bringing relief and encouragement to many households grappling with economic hardship.

The outreach, driven by philanthropist and business leader Dr. Chimaobi Desmond Anyaso, provided food items and financial support to families during the Lenten season, offering timely assistance and strengthening community solidarity.

Throughout the tour, the foundation’s team moved from ward to ward, delivering aid and engaging directly with residents through what organisers described as the “Direct Touch Initiative”—a grassroots approach aimed at ensuring that support reaches people at the community level.

According to organisers, the initiative was designed to make the movement more than a message by translating compassion into practical assistance for families in need.

Easter Visits to Uzuakoli and Umuimenyi/Nkpa

The final phase of the tour featured visits to two wards in Ikwuisi:

Uzuakoli Ward, at Amuhi Eluama, Uzuakoli

Umuimenyi/Nkpa Ward, at Lohum Imenyi Ukwu, Achi Village Square, Nkpa Amaogbeke Amaohoro

Community members—including traditional rulers, youth groups, women, town union leaders, and religious leaders—gathered to receive the foundation’s team and express appreciation for the support extended to residents.

The events provided an opportunity for community interaction, recognition of local leadership, and encouragement for continued unity and collective development.

Celebration of Service and Renewal

Speakers at the gatherings described the outreach as a demonstration of compassionate leadership and grassroots engagement.

Representing Dr. Anyaso during the concluding visits were Ezeogo (Dr.) Emeka Onuoha, Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Chima Anyaso Foundation, and Pastor Okechukwu D**e, who led the delegation through the final activities of the tour.

As the outreach concluded, organisers reaffirmed the movement’s guiding message: “OFUJI Movement: The Idea Whose Time Has Come.”

For many residents, the initiative brought not only material support but also renewed optimism; reinforcing the belief that meaningful change can begin at the grassroots, one ward at a time.