The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has accused the state government of attempting to destabilise the party through alleged financial inducement and infiltration of its ranks.
The party alleged that the Labour Party-led administration in the state earmarked about N5bn for the alleged plan, claiming the funds were being channelled through certain individuals to create internal divisions within the APC.
In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, the APC said it had uncovered what it described as “desperate attempts” to weaken the opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections by using former aspirants within the party.
The statement alleged that a businessman, previously a member of the party and reportedly linked to Governor Alex Otti, acted as a conduit for the release of funds.
It stated: “Intelligence indicates that a well-known businessman, a former member of our party and a close associate of Governor Alex Otti, was allegedly used as a conduit to release the sum of N5 billion to certain individuals at the APC national headquarters.”
The APC further claimed that part of the alleged funds was directed at influencing a frontline aspirant within the party to cause confusion and internal division.
According to the party, the alleged plot also included attempts to influence candidates during the recently concluded APC primaries for legislative positions in the state.
“We are equally aware of the failed efforts by the Labour Party government to sponsor aspirants for positions in the House of Representatives and the State House of Assembly during the recently concluded APC primary elections,” the statement added.
It said despite alleged pressure and inducements, the party resisted attempts to compromise its internal processes.
The APC also questioned the motives of the state government, suggesting that a government confident in its performance would not need to interfere in opposition politics.
“Why the frantic attempts to infiltrate and compromise the opposition? Why deploy taxpayers’ money on political misadventures instead of addressing the genuine needs of the people?” the party queried.
The statement further accused the government of failing to account for major public expenditures, including projects such as smart schools, recreational facilities, and ICT centres.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, the APC expressed confidence in its growing support base in Abia State under the leadership of Hon. Benjamin Kalu, stating that it remained focused and united.
It declared: “Come 2027, we are confident that the people of Abia State will reject empty promises, lies and dishonesty and embrace genuine leadership.”
The party also projected electoral victory across senatorial, House of Representatives, House of Assembly, and presidential contests, insisting it was fully prepared for the polls.
