The Michael Okpara Square in Independence Layout, Enugu, was filled with excitement on March 3, 2026, as members of the All Progressives Congress gathered for the party’s state congress in Enugu State.
The venue was decorated with canopies, posters, banners, and ribbons carrying the colours and symbols of the party. Party leaders, members, and supporters from the 17 local government areas of the state attended the event in large numbers. Music played from the popular Ulaga Music Stand while many supporters danced and celebrated.
Many important political leaders in the state were present at the congress, making the event one of the biggest gatherings of the party in Enugu. The congress also brought together members from different political backgrounds, including former members of the Peoples Democratic Party and the Labour Party Nigeria, who are now working together within the APC in the state.
The exercise started with the accreditation of delegates from different wards and local government areas before the election of new state executives.
The arrival of the governor of Enugu State, Peter Mbah, around 1:30 p.m. was one of the highlights of the event. The governor walked around the venue, greeting party members and supporters who welcomed him with loud cheers.
Under the supervision of the APC national committee for the Enugu State Congress, led by Loveth Isidi, delegates elected Martin Chukwunweike as the new state chairman and Chukwudi Nnadozie as the state secretary. They were elected alongside 35 other members to form a 37-member state executive committee.
The national committee described the election process as free, fair, transparent, and credible. In addition, 15 zonal executives were also elected, with five members from each of the state’s three senatorial zones.
In his speech, Governor Mbah praised party leaders and members for conducting a peaceful and transparent congress. He also commended the economic policies of Bola Tinubu, saying that increased revenue to states has helped support development projects in Enugu.
According to him, the unity displayed at the congress shows that members of the party in Enugu are working together as one family. He congratulated the new executives and encouraged them to continue the work started by the caretaker committee led by Ben Nwoye.
The governor also urged the new leaders to ensure that government reforms and development projects are properly explained to people at the grassroots level, especially as future elections approach.
He mentioned several projects expected to benefit the state, including the concession of the Akanu Ibiam International Airport and its cargo terminal, plans to extend the railway to Enugu, the creation of the South East Development Commission, and plans for a high-pressure gas pipeline to support economic growth.
In his acceptance speech, the new chairman, Martin Chukwunweike, promised to remain committed to the party and work hard with his team to achieve victory in future elections.
Other top leaders who attended the congress included the Speaker of the Enugu State House of Assembly, Uchenna Ugwu; Osita Ngwu; Kelvin Chukwu; Deputy Governor Ifeanyi Ossai; Secretary to the State Government Chidiebere Onyia; and Chief of Staff Victor Udeh, among other political stakeholders.
With the successful conclusion of the ward, local government, and state congresses, the APC in Enugu State has shown unity and readiness for future political contests.
The outcome of the congress also signals a strong political direction for the state as preparations for the 2027 Nigerian general elections continue.