The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has moved to sanction former Governor of the state and Senator Orji Uzor Kalu (OUK) and Hon. Chris Nkwonta over alleged anti-party conduct arising from their reported support for Governor Alex Otti ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The party’s State Working Committee (SWC), at a meeting on Monday, August 10, 2026, described the alleged statements and actions of the two APC chieftains as “unstatesmanlike, irresponsible, embarrassing and inimical” to the unity and electoral prospects of the party in Abia.
In a communiqué signed by members of the SWC, including the State Chairman, Hon. Chijioke Chukwu; Deputy Chairman, Chief Chinedu Ihesiulo; Secretary, Chief Chidi Avajah; Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru; and Legal Adviser, Barr. Vigilius Nwankwo, the party gave Kalu and Nkwonta seven days to tender an “unreserved public apology” or face disciplinary proceedings.
The APC alleged that Kalu, during an interview with a national television station, predicted victory for Governor Otti in the 2027 governorship election.
It also expressed displeasure over a reported statement by Nkwonta, allegedly made in the presence of Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, that he would vote for Otti in the election.
The Abia APC described the alleged declarations as “internal sabotage and anti-party conduct,” arguing that they could undermine its mobilisation efforts across the 184 wards in the state and demoralise members and supporters ahead of the 2027 polls.
The SWC maintained that no individual, irrespective of political stature, influence or past contributions to the party, was above the APC Constitution, rules and regulations.
It cited Article 21.2 (11) of the APC Constitution, 2022, as the basis for its position that conduct considered inimical to the party or amounting to indiscipline and disloyalty could attract disciplinary action.
The party said the seven-day apology must reaffirm the commitment of Kalu and Nkwonta to the APC, its constitution, leadership and the collective decision of the party to support its candidates in the 2027 general elections, particularly its governorship candidate.
The SWC warned that failure to comply with the directive would result in the constitution of a disciplinary committee to investigate the circumstances surrounding the alleged statements and actions and make appropriate recommendations to the relevant organs of the party.
It further stated that if found culpable, the two party members could face disciplinary measures prescribed by the APC Constitution and other applicable regulations, including possible withdrawal of political support and privileges.
Reaffirming its determination to win the 2027 elections, the Abia APC said it would continue to strengthen its structures, mobilise its members and support its candidates across the state.
The party urged its members to remain calm, focused and united, stressing that the APC was “bigger than any individual,” regardless of political stature or influence.
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