APC Igbo Youth Forum Condemns Ihedioha's NRS Appointment as Political Betrayal
The All Progressives Congress Igbo Youth Forum has launched a scathing critique against the recent appointment of Obinna Ihedioha as Executive Director of the Nigeria Revenue Service, describing the move as a direct affront to party loyalists in the South-East region. The group's strong condemnation comes amid growing discontent within APC ranks, with members expressing frustration over what they perceive as the sidelining of dedicated party supporters in favor of individuals with opposition affiliations.
Allegations of Opposition Links and Questionable Loyalty
In a detailed statement issued by National Coordinator Chukwuemeka Chidi, the forum leveled serious allegations against Ihedioha's political background and questioned his suitability for the sensitive position. The group asserted that Ihedioha, who is the brother of former Imo State governor Emeka Ihedioha, maintains close ties with opposition political forces, having reportedly worked for Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi during the previous election cycle and maintaining strong connections with leaders of the African Democratic Congress.
The forum emphasized that these associations raise fundamental questions about loyalty and trustworthiness, particularly given the strategic nature of the position Ihedioha has been appointed to occupy. As Executive Director for People, Stakeholders and Communication representing the South East on the NRS management team, Ihedioha would hold significant influence over personnel management and public communication within the national revenue agency.
Concerns Over Party Loyalty and Regional Representation
The APC Igbo Youth Forum expressed deep concern that the appointment sends a damaging message to party members who endured considerable hardship during the election period. According to the group's statement, many APC supporters in the South-East invested personal resources and risked their safety to advance the party's electoral prospects, only to find themselves overlooked when federal appointments were being distributed.
The forum argued that the South-East region possesses numerous qualified and loyal APC members who possess both the competence and commitment to serve effectively in federal positions. By bypassing these individuals in favor of someone with opposition connections, the current leadership stands accused of prioritizing political appeasement over genuine party loyalty and merit-based selection.
The group warned that such actions could have serious consequences for the party's grassroots mobilization efforts and might discourage faithful members from future political engagement. They emphasized that appointments to key national institutions should strengthen party unity rather than create divisions and resentment among dedicated supporters.
Call for Presidential Intervention and Protest Threats
In response to what they describe as a politically insensitive appointment, the APC Igbo Youth Forum has called directly on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and reverse the decision. The group urged the President to ensure that federal positions allocated to the South East reflect genuine party loyalty and commitment to the administration's policy agenda.
The forum issued a stern warning that they would mobilize protests across the country if the appointment decision is not reviewed. They insisted that key appointments should reward party loyalty and strengthen internal cohesion rather than undermine the commitment of grassroots supporters who have invested significantly in the party's success.
In their concluding remarks, the group appealed for fairness and respect toward APC supporters in the South East, cautioning that continued neglect of loyal party members could have lasting political consequences for the APC's standing in the region. The statement represents a significant challenge to the party's appointment processes and highlights ongoing tensions within Nigeria's political landscape regarding representation and reward for party loyalty.
