BY FRONTLINE REPORTERS
New leaders emerged across several local government areas (LGAs) at this weekend’s All Progressives Congress (APC) congresses, though the exercises were marred by controversy and violence in some states.
Enugu: Old Members Cry Foul
In Enugu State, long-standing party members alleged that the congresses were hijacked, claiming outcomes failed to reflect an earlier power-sharing understanding following the defection of Governor Peter Mbah and his supporters from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Aggrieved members said the agreed 60–40 formula — which allocated 17 of 28 LGA executive positions to the former PDP bloc and 11 to old APC and Labour Party (LP) members — was allegedly flouted.
Sources cited LGAs including Enugu South, Oji River and Igbo-Eze North, where PDP members were accused of taking positions beyond the agreed slots.
An aggrieved member, speaking anonymously, described the development as “deeply disappointing.”
“Only four of our members were chosen while PDP took over the other positions. I was a former chairman, yet I was given an ex-officio role,” he said.
Another member from Enugu West Senatorial District lamented that his group received “just three positions out of the 11 expected.”
However, Governor Mbah commended the peaceful conduct of the congresses.
Speaking in Nkanu East, where Hon. Abel Nwigwe emerged as chairman, Mbah described the exercise as a “model of consensus in action.”
“We have demonstrated unity. This congress is a brotherly affair,” the governor said, adding that similar reports had been received from other LGAs.
Lagos: Consensus, Carnival-like Atmosphere
In Lagos State, APC leaders hailed the smooth conduct of the congresses across the 20 LGAs.
Chairman of the Congress Committee, Karounwi Oladapo, said the process complied with the party constitution and Electoral Act.
“We are very satisfied. The atmosphere was carnival-like. Executives emerged through consensus arrangements,” Oladapo said.
State APC Chairman Cornelius Ojelabi also praised delegates for maintaining unity and discipline.
Ondo: Peaceful LG Congress, Shadow of Violence
In Ondo State, party members described the LGA congresses across the 18 councils as peaceful and orderly.
Commissioner for Women Affairs Dr Seun Bosede Osamaye attributed the smooth exercise to leadership provided by Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa.
But the earlier ward congress in Idanre LGA turned deadly after suspected thugs attacked party members, leaving two persons dead and three injured.
The Nigeria Police confirmed the arrest of 13 suspects linked to the violence.
State APC Chairman Ade Adetimehin, who was assaulted, alleged that the attackers claimed “the governor owns the party.”
“They dragged me to the floor and beat me. They were shooting periodically,” Adetimehin said.
APC stakeholders condemned the violence, calling for stricter security at future exercises.
Delta: Delegates Applauded
In Delta State, the congresses in all 25 LGAs were widely commended.
Former Governor Ifeanyi Okowa and Minister of Aviation Festus Keyamo praised delegates for a peaceful consensus process.
Secretary of the APC National Committee, Hon. Simon Atigwe, described participation and orderliness as “gratifying.”
Edo: Leaders Charged on Electoral Performance
In Edo State, executives emerged via affirmation across the 18 LGAs.
Acting Chairman Jarret Tenebe urged leaders to translate party unity into electoral success.
“We will recognise those who mobilise voters. Leaders must win their units and wards,” he warned.
Kwara: Mandates Renewed
In Kwara State, APC leaders’ mandates were renewed across the 16 LGAs through consensus.
Committee Secretary Oche Muhammed described the exercise as peaceful and successful, while lawmaker Rukayat Shittu praised the calm atmosphere.
Oyo: Optimism Ahead of 2027
In Oyo State, former Oluyole LGA Chairman Kehinde Olaosebikan expressed confidence that the emergence of Dotun Oladipupo would help the party “triple votes” for President Bola Tinubu in 2027.
Despite isolated disputes and violence, APC leaders in several states described the congresses as largely successful, setting the stage for internal consolidation ahead of future elections.
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