Anambra APC hits Ngige, warns former spokesperson

The comment, according to the party, was his personal opinion and not APC’s official position.

The party further warned the former Publicity Secretary in Anambra chapter, Mudakaife Okelo, to stop blackmailing APC or face the consequences.

Addressing reporters at the party’s headquarters in Awka, APC Anambra chairman, Chief Basil Ejidike, said Okelo, was no longer a member and should not be representing APC in anything.

He said his suspension and dismissal were ratified by the former National executive of APC, adding that the decision stands.

Okelo, at the weekend, defended Ngige on his comment during a programme on a national television.

When asked if he would vote for his presidential candidate during the 2023 election, Ngige said he would answer the question on the election day with his voting card.

In a statement in Awka, the former Publicity Secretary said the APC would only sweep the polls if the issues raised by Ngige were addressed.

However, Ejikide said the appearance and statement of Ngige was personal and does not represent the views of APC in Anambra

He said: “I want to state that the records of APC are here for people to see. We will not allow anyone to blackmail the party in the State.

“Okelo was the former Publicity Secretary of the party in the State and ceased to be so in 2020.

“If Adams Oshiomhole, who was the National Chairman of APC, could step aside, the party wonders why it would be difficult for Okelo to give himself a seat, rather than blackmailing the party.

“He was first suspended before the party conveyed the message to the then National Chairman of the party in July, 2021 which was ratified.

‘’He was not only suspended or sacked without due process. Due process was followed for his anti-party activities.’’

He added: “APC is fully committed to delivering our presidential candidate, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his Vice, Kashim Shettima in 2023.’’

He said committees had been set up in the State and throughout the Southeast, through the leader of APC in the zone, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State.

“And our Coordinator in Anambra State, Senator Margery Okadigbo and Senator Andy Uba, are not taking it lightly in making sure APC becomes victorious come 2023.

“Let me advice Ndigbo to key into the wind sweeping across the country. Ndigbo are not known for opposition politics and will not fail in this one. Asiwaju Tinubu must be delivered in Anambra and Southeast come 2023.’’