The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia State has formally presented Dr Godswill Egbe as the deputy governorship candidate to Chief Eric Opah, the party's flag bearer for the 2027 gubernatorial election. The unveiling took place at the party secretariat in Umuahia, the state capital, during a ceremony attended by party executives and supporters.
According to a report by Radio Nigeria on Tuesday, October 6, Opah told party members that the selection of Egbe followed extensive consultations with party leaders and a thorough review of his background and professional track record. Opah specifically noted that checks on Egbe's previous work with BUA Group had returned favourable recommendations, which reinforced his confidence in the choice.
Opah Defends Choice, Cites Integrity and Experience
Speaking at the event, Opah described his running mate as "a man of integrity," adding that both men would work together to serve the interests of the people of Abia State. The governorship candidate emphasised that the decision was not taken lightly, but was the product of wide-ranging consultations within the party structure.
The APC State Chairman, Chief Chijioke Chukwu, received Egbe at the secretariat and formally introduced him to the party's executive council and supporters as the deputy governorship candidate for the 2027 race. Chukwu's presence underscored the party's unity behind the newly unveiled ticket.
APC's Agenda for Abia: Jobs, Infrastructure, Tax Reform
Opah used the occasion to outline the priorities an APC administration would pursue if elected in 2027. These include job creation, infrastructure development, and a review of existing tax policies to ensure that public funds directly benefit residents. He also stressed the importance of accountability, promising that the party would publish accurate information on government-funded projects and ensure transparency in the management of state resources.
The agenda, as presented, is designed to address key developmental challenges facing Abia State. Opah's emphasis on fiscal transparency and project disclosure signals the party's intent to differentiate itself on governance issues ahead of the election cycle.
Egbe Pledges Loyalty, Calls for Unity
In his acceptance remarks, Egbe expressed gratitude to Opah and the party for the trust placed in him. He pledged to remain loyal to the governorship candidate and the party leadership throughout the campaign, and said his role would be to support Opah's vision and help deliver the objectives set out in the APC manifesto.
Egbe also called on party members to stay united and focused, and pledged to contribute to the party's efforts to secure votes for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2027 general elections. His remarks were met with applause from the gathering, which included party faithful from across the state.
The unveiling follows a recent development in which Abia APC disowned an alleged petition to the national headquarters of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that reportedly sought the relocation of the Bende collation centre ahead of the 2027 elections. The party described the petition as fake and said it did not initiate it.
