The Conference of All Progressives Congress (APC) Support Groups has strongly condemned the disqualification of businessman and former presidential aspirant, Tein Jack-Rich, from the Rivers West Senatorial race ahead of the party primaries for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued after an emergency review meeting, the group described the decision of the APC screening committee as unjust, divisive, and capable of undermining unity within the party. The statement was signed by the National Coordinator of the conference, Dr. Bilal Galadima, and the General Secretary, Hon. James Ogenyi.
The group questioned the growing influence of individuals allegedly determining the direction of the party in Rivers State. They warned that such actions could weaken the APC ahead of the next general elections. The conference further alleged that only loyalists of the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, were cleared to contest positions in the state, while long-standing party members were sidelined.
“How can our party allow only one man who is not a member of our party to make decisions or dictate the direction of our party?” the statement read. “How can our party disqualify Jack-Rich, a former Presidential aspirant who has been loyal and supported our party for the last thirteen years, only for our party to choose Felix Obua, a Wike loyalist who only joined the party three months ago?”
According to the statement, Jack-Rich, described as a loyal APC member and former presidential aspirant, had supported the party and its ideals for over 13 years but was denied the opportunity to contest the Rivers West Senatorial seat. The conference also questioned the clearance of Felix Obua, whom it described as a loyalist of Wike and a recent entrant into the party.
The group called on APC stakeholders, party leaders, and the National Working Committee to intervene and address what they termed as injustice against loyal party members. They warned that failure to resolve the issue could weaken the party’s grassroots structure and affect its chances in the 2027 elections. The conference urged the party leadership to uphold internal democracy, reward loyalty, and ensure a level playing field for all aspirants across Rivers State and the country.
