Suspected thugs disrupt APC guber primary in Anambra

Security personnel were accused of conspiring with suspected thugs to disrupt the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship primary election in Anambra state on Saturday, according to reports. The event is being held at the Beautiful Gate Hotel in Awka, the capital of the state of Anambra. Around 10:37 a.m., some police officers and suspected thugs allegedly associated with one of the aspirants blocked access to the accreditation venue, triggering the crisis. Only a few individuals with branded shirts of the aspirant were reportedly allowed to go inside the premises.

 According to multiple accounts, delegates not aligned with the aspirant were turned back, harassed, and, in some cases, physically assaulted, while security personnel stood by.

 In a brief conversation with journalists, APC publicity secretary Valentine Oliobi confirmed the development. “Yes, it is true.  Nicholas Ukachukwu's associates are stopping delegates at the gate and collaborating with the police. He stated, "It is not what the party stands for." The Valentine Ozigbo Campaign Organisation condemned the disruption, describing it as a deliberate attempt to hijack the process.

 Ephraim Adiele, the Ozigbo campaign spokesperson, decried what he called an attempt to “hijack the primary” through intimidation and force.

 “We reject the politics of violence and call for a level playing field,” Adiele said.

 Nicholas Ukachukwu clearly wants to take over the primary. It cannot stand.  To avoid a crisis, the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ought to act immediately. Two aspirants withdrew from the primary election hours before the exercise.

 Chukwuma Umeoji, a former member of the house of representatives, announced his withdrawal on Friday, citing consultations with his supporters across the state.

 Paul Chukwuma resigned from the party and withdrew from the exercise. Ukachukwu, Ozigbo, Obiora Okonkwo, Johnbosco Onunkwo, and Edozie Madu are still in the race.