APC primaries in Abia and Rivers states delivered key victories for top political figures, as the party confirmed a largely peaceful and competitive selection process ahead of the 2027 elections.
The exercise produced unopposed wins for Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu and former Minister Nkeiruka Onyejeocha in Abia, while several big names also secured tickets in Rivers State amid tight screenings and internal party tensions.
Abia APC Clears Key Heavyweights
Abia State APC conducted its House of Representatives primaries without major disruption as senior party figures secured tickets across constituencies.
Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, won unopposed to represent Bende Federal Constituency for a third term. Former Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, also secured the APC ticket for Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency.
She previously served from 2007 to 2023 before losing her seat to Labour Party’s Amobi Ogah.
Former Lawmakers Return to Contest
Furthermore, the primaries produced several political comebacks. Hon. Chris Nkwonta clinched the ticket for Ukwa East/Ukwa West.
Former lawmaker Uzo Azubuike also returned to the race for Aba North/Aba South under the APC, after previously serving under the Peoples Democratic Party.
In addition, Chinedum Orji emerged winner for Ikwuano/Umuahia North/Umuahia South, while Uzoma Ihuka secured Isiala Ngwa North/Isiala Ngwa South.
Party Commends Peaceful Conduct
However, the Abia APC screening and election committee chairman, Erasmus Cishak, said the process remained fair, transparent, and peaceful across all constituencies.
He said party members maintained discipline throughout the exercise. Consequently, he noted that credibility guided every stage of the primaries.
Meanwhile, Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu described the process as calm and rancour-free. He said the party avoided automatic tickets and allowed genuine competition among aspirants.
Rivers APC Screens Out Key Figures
In Rivers State, the APC screening process reshaped the contest as several political actors failed to secure clearance for senatorial seats.
However, the party cleared Senator Felix Obuah, Allwell Onyesoh, and Chief Barry Mwara for different senatorial districts.
Meanwhile, Senator Banigo Ipalibo, Tammy Danagogo, Tein Jack-Rich, and Ojukaye Flag-Amachree failed to meet party requirements and did not qualify for the race.
Winners Emerge Across Federal Constituencies
Furthermore, the House of Representatives primaries in Rivers State produced multiple winners across constituencies.
Hon. Dumnamene Deekor won Gokana/Khana with 17,073 votes, while Martin Amaewhule secured Obio/Akpor. Precious Igwe emerged unopposed for Port Harcourt I, while Blessing Amadi won Port Harcourt II.
In addition, Hart Cyril Godwin, Felix Uche Nwaeke, Isobo Solomon, Linda Somiari-Steward, and others also secured party tickets across federal constituencies.
