APC Chieftain Accuses Labour Minister Onyejeocha of Anti-Party Activities, Petitions National Chairman

A major political storm is brewing in the All Progressives Congress (APC) as a chieftain of the party from Ukwa East Local Government Area, Chief Williams Nwanguma, has filed a formal petition against the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, accusing her of anti-party activities in Abia State.

In a petition addressed to the APC National Chairman, Dr. Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, and titled "Petition Against the Anti-Party Activity of Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha: The Honourable Minister of State for Labour and Employment," Chief Nwanguma expressed outrage over the Minister's alleged endorsement of Abia State Governor Alex Otti, a non-APC member, at a recent public function.

A Bombshell Accusation: Onyejeocha's Alleged Endorsement of Otti

According to Chief Nwanguma, during the flag-off of a state road project in Umunneochi Local Government Area on February 28, 2025, Hon. Onyejeocha openly urged traditional rulers and residents to support Governor Otti for re-election, despite him being a member of the Labour Party (LP) and not the APC. The petition describes this as a blatant betrayal of the APC's mission to reclaim political dominance in Abia State.

Chief Nwanguma did not mince words in his criticism of Onyejeocha's actions, stating:

"The Governor of Abia State, not being a member of APC, makes the above call for re-election support by no less a person than a former Deputy Chief Whip of the 9th House of Representatives and a sitting member of the Federal Executive Council highly embarrassing to me and other well-meaning members of the party in the state and across the nation."

APC's Growth at Stake? Chieftain Warns of Consequences

The petition warns that failure to take action against Onyejeocha could weaken the APC's position in the 2027 general elections. Chief Nwanguma argued that allowing such acts of disloyalty to go unpunished would signal internal weakness and disunity, making the party vulnerable to ridicule and political irrelevance.

"It will paint a picture of a state chapter that is not serious about winning local and national elections, thereby subjecting our party to ridicule, contempt, and disrepute."

He further highlighted the rapid expansion of the APC in Abia State, pointing out that several opposition figures have been defecting to the party with the goal of unseating Governor Otti. He described Onyejeocha's alleged support for Otti as a direct sabotage of these efforts, undermining the party's chances in future elections.

"It is sad, disheartening, and unacceptable for a high-ranking APC member like the Honourable Minister to not only entertain such thoughts but also publicly express support for a rival party's candidate. Her actions are a direct betrayal of the efforts by APC leaders, stakeholders, and members who are working hard to strengthen the party in Abia State."

Demand for Investigation and Possible Sanctions

Chief Nwanguma is urging the APC National Working Committee (NWC) to launch a thorough investigation into Onyejeocha's alleged anti-party conduct. He insists that if the accusations are proven true, she must face disciplinary action to deter others from engaging in similar acts of disloyalty.

"Handing down the necessary sanctions will serve as a deterrent to others who might consider engaging in similar acts of disloyalty as we prepare for the 2027 general elections."

Political Fallout Looms

The petition has already begun stirring controversy within the APC, particularly in Abia State, as party members eagerly await the response of the national leadership. Will the APC high command act swiftly to discipline one of its own, or will Onyejeocha's political influence shield her from consequences? The coming days will reveal the party's stance on internal loyalty and discipline.