The Ebonyi State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has declared that it will not present unpopular candidates in the 2027 general elections, emphasizing that aspirants must earn their tickets through public acceptance and performance rather than political favors.
State APC Chairman Chief Stanley Okoro-Emegha made this known after a strategic meeting with the 13 local government council chairmen and party leaders across the state. He announced a limited window for opposition members to defect to the APC, warning that the opportunity would close by the end of August or early September.
“If you want to join APC, we are giving between now and the end of August, maybe early September. If you don’t join during this window, forget about it,” Okoro-Emegha stated. “Nobody is begging anybody. But if you believe in what the governor is doing, or in the vision of Mr. President, join now.”
The party chairman confirmed ongoing efforts to recruit opposition lawmakers, including Hon. Idu Igariwey of the Peoples Democratic Party and Hon. Nkemkama of the Labour Party, urging them to fully align with the APC rather than maintain superficial relations with the state government.
“Enough of dining and wining with the governor at public events while staying in other political parties. Come join us. Let’s build Ebonyi together,” he said.
Okoro-Emegha stressed that the APC would only field candidates with proven grassroots appeal, noting that performance and public support would be key determinants for ticket allocation in 2027.
“You can’t win an election with an unpopular candidate. I’m saying it clearly — if we assess you and you are not doing well, you won’t fly our ticket. There’s no sentiment about that,” he asserted. “All candidates must pass the test of public approval. The people will decide who represents them at every level — we won’t impose anyone.”
On the extension of party leadership inaugurations nationwide, Okoro-Emegha disclosed that while the process was initially set for October, President Bola Tinubu had extended the deadline to December 31 to accommodate more defectors before congresses commence.
“The new deadline is December 31st. But once we begin our congresses, no more new members will be admitted. At that point, our focus will shift to party activities and internal planning,” he explained.
The Ebonyi APC chairman reaffirmed the party’s commitment to strengthening its dominance through inclusive yet principled internal democratic processes.