“Greed, Intolerance Have Defined APGA’s Leadership Since Inception” – Obidigbo

Elder statesman, Dr. Chike Obidigbo, has criticized the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), claiming the party has behaved like a “spoilt child” since its inception in 2002 under the leadership of Chief Chekwas Okorie. According to Obidigbo, the party has been plagued by leadership disputes and internal instability throughout its history.

In a statement made available to journalists, Obidigbo attributed APGA’s recurring crises to the “greed and intolerance” of successive leaders. He pointed to the ongoing factional battle between Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s preferred candidate, Sly Ezeokenwa, and Chief Edozie Njoku, who has been recognized by both the courts and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as the rightful party chairman.

Obidigbo’s remarks come after Lady Bianca Ojukwu, wife of the late APGA leader Odumegwu Ojukwu, posted on Instagram, which he interpreted as an expression of her concern over the party’s current state.

“Since its founding, APGA has been marked by leadership crises and internal instability, largely due to the selfish ambitions and lack of tolerance of its leadership,” Obidigbo said. He referenced previous disputes, including the controversial rise of Chief Victor Umeh, who replaced founding chairman Okorie, and the power struggles between Umeh and Maxi Okwu.

The elder statesman also discussed the more recent turmoil, including the suspension of Victor Ike Oye and the leadership struggle that followed. Oye had the support of former Anambra State Governor Willie Obiano, but internal disagreements persisted, culminating in parallel national conventions that produced two factional leaders: Njoku and Oye. By July 2023, the courts and INEC declared Njoku the legitimate chairman, but Soludo’s backing of the Ezeokenwa faction has reignited another leadership battle within the party.

Obidigbo expressed disappointment in the continued disarray within APGA, hinting that Bianca Ojukwu likely shares his concerns about the party her late husband once led.

“The gladiators in APGA should recognize the lessons of history and the demands of posterity,” he warned, urging party leaders to bring an end to the “endless disagreements and political greed” that have characterized APGA’s journey.