Abia APC threatens sanctions over Ogah’s help for Labour Party

Tensions have emerged inside the Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress following remarks by former Minister of State for Mines and Metal Improvement, Uche Ogah, which the get together described as “reckless and irresponsible.”

The get together has threatened disciplinary motion, whereas Ogah and his Abia Rejoice Motion preserve that his feedback have been misinterpreted.

In a press release launched Sunday, the Publicity Secretary of Abia APC, Uche Aguoru, mentioned the get together’s consideration was drawn to Ogah’s assertion allegedly made at a Labour Party occasion in Isuikwuato, the place he was reported to have mentioned that, regardless of being an APC member, he would help the Labour Party within the 2027 governorship election.

“Whereas the get together just isn’t solely shocked by such reckless and irresponsible remarks, the Abia APC unequivocally dissociates itself and all its members from this unacceptable conduct. The assertion credited to Dr Ogah doesn’t in any manner mirror the place, beliefs, or aspirations of the APC in Abia State,” the assertion partly learn.

The get together accused Ogah of working as a mole inside its ranks, noting that he had beforehand been suspended from all get together communication platforms, together with official WhatsApp teams. The APC additionally emphasised its dedication to profitable elections in any respect ranges in 2027 and warned in opposition to harbouring people who undermine collective get together objectives.

“We strongly condemn the irresponsible and unlucky anti-party posture for which Dr Ogah seems to have turn into infamous. Consequently, the get together will instantly activate its disciplinary mechanisms to completely examine the matter and suggest probably the most applicable sanctions,” Aguoru mentioned.

The Abia APC additional urged get together members and residents to ignore what it described as “an act of political sabotage,” asserting that the get together won’t tolerate moles or saboteurs.

Nevertheless, Ogah, in a press release, defended his remarks, stating that the occasion in Isuikwuato was a civic celebration, not a Labour Party perform.

“The entire Isuikwuato gathered to rejoice the Legal professional Normal as a senior advocate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. It’s not a Labour programme, it’s neither a labour retreat. This isn’t politics,” Ogah mentioned.

He added, “In spite of everything, politics is governance. I don’t like mendacity; I say it the best way it’s. All people is aware of that the governor is working, and we’re seeing it. And I cannot be a celebration to going again to Egypt once more. No one will carry me to Egypt when I’m already liberated.

“I help and am nonetheless supporting President Tinubu. Some folks say, ‘in your mandate I stand’ to allow them to go to Abuja to see if they’ll get cash. I don’t do yard enterprise. I’m supporting President Tinubu, and I’m appreciating Dr. Alex Otti for what he’s doing within the state. Anyone who sees what would make Abia State transfer ahead ought to do it.”

In a separate assertion, Abia Rejoice Motion clarified that Ogah’s remarks have been motivated by patriotism, not partisanship.

“Dr Uche Ogah’s place is pushed by patriotism, not partisanship. The occasion the place Dr Ogah made his remarks was not a Labour Party political gathering, however a civic reception organised in honour of an illustrious son of Isuikwuato who’s presently serving because the Legal professional Normal of Abia State, supposed to rejoice service and achievement, not a partisan political rally,” the group mentioned.

The motion additionally criticised makes an attempt to politicise Ogah’s remarks, highlighting that different APC leaders have beforehand acknowledged and recommended the efficiency of Governor Alex Otti, regardless of get together variations.

“It’s subsequently each curious and pointless for anybody to all of the sudden try to criminalise or politicise the same expression of goodwill and recognition when it comes from Dr Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah,” the group added.

It urged political actors to deal with constructive engagement and keep away from pointless controversy. “Political discourse in Abia have to be guided by information, accountability, and progress, not unnecessary controversy,” the assertion mentioned.

The group reaffirmed Ogah’s dedication to the reform agenda of President Bola Tinubu and his continued work towards the President’s reelection.