An All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain in Enugu State has raised significant concerns about internal divisions within the party, particularly following the recent influx of former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) members. Simon Ejike Eze, the APC’s 2023 Enugu North Senatorial candidate, is warning that these new entrants are exacerbating existing disunity, leading to the sidelining of long-standing party members. This development poses a serious threat to the APC’s structure and its prospects in future elections if not addressed promptly through inclusive leadership and genuine reconciliation efforts.
Eze highlighted that the current situation is creating a “fresh layer of disunity” within the APC in Enugu. He expressed that many loyal party members who have contributed significantly over the years feel increasingly overlooked in favor of those who recently joined from the PDP. This dynamic is fueling resentment and could lead to deeper factional disputes.
Featured snippet paragraph: The APC chieftain believes that internal divisions in Enugu are deepening because long-standing party members are being sidelined in favor of new entrants from the PDP. He stresses the urgent need for inclusive leadership and reconciliation to unite the party for future elections.
In a recent interview, Eze recalled his earlier appeals to the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, to establish reconciliation committees in states experiencing such factional disputes. His intention was to ensure the party could enter the 2027 elections as a cohesive and united front, capable of effectively challenging opponents.
While acknowledging the recent appointment of reconciliation committees as a positive step, Eze asserted that the specific situation in Enugu remains largely unresolved. The influx of PDP members, he contends, has only intensified the existing problems and created new challenges for party cohesion.
He made a direct appeal to both state and federal leaders of the APC to intervene in the Enugu situation. Eze emphasized the critical importance of recognizing and valuing the sacrifices and enduring contributions of those who have been loyal to the party for an extended period.
Eze specifically urged the governor of Enugu State to pay very close attention to these unfolding issues. He also called upon Mr. President to step in and ensure that those in positions of power understand the human element involved, recognizing that party members have aspirations and should not be treated as disposable assets.
Despite his reservations about the internal party dynamics, Eze did concede that Enugu State stands to benefit significantly from closer alignment with the federal government. He believes that any pragmatic individual would recognize the advantages of being in sync with the central government’s agenda.
Eze recounted his own long and active association with the APC, noting that he was involved in party activities long before the current administration’s members joined. This personal history underscores his perspective on the importance of recognizing long-term commitment.
While he acknowledged that the governor has performed creditably in his role, Eze argued that this success should not come at the expense of marginalizing dedicated and loyal party members. The principle of rewarding loyalty should remain paramount.
At the local government level, particularly in areas like Igbo-Eze South, Eze observed that new members are acting as if those who were already in the party prior to their arrival do not hold any significance. This behavior, he warned, is a direct catalyst for factional leadership struggles.
He implored Peter Mbah and the broader party leadership to take swift and decisive action to prevent further factionalization. Eze reiterated that unity and a commitment to inclusion are absolutely critical components for achieving electoral success in any political contest.
Eze firmly stated that party unity is the essential ingredient for winning elections, and it is imperative that every member feels included and valued. The act of treating long-standing members as insignificant entities will inevitably weaken the party’s overall strength and appeal.
He reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to the APC, emphasizing that experienced and loyal members are not just valuable but vital to the party’s sustained success and future growth within Enugu State.
