Disagreement continues regarding the May 16, 2026, All Progressive Congress (APC) primary for the Ukwa East/Ukwa West Federal constituency in Abia State. Although the state party chapter officially declared incumbent Representative Chris Nkwonta the winner on July 1, 2026, many local residents remain dissatisfied.
On Sunday, supporters of Samuel Nwogu, the former chairman of ASOPADEC, assembled in Obehie, Ukwa West LGA, to protest. Groups including the New Ukwa Progressive Initiative and Asa Development Union claimed Nwogu is the rightful candidate. Represented by leaders like Akanwa Franklin and Boniface Nwaigwe, they argued that one area has controlled the seat for two decades and urged party leadership to prioritize regional equity.
Conversely, supporters of Chris Nkwonta held a separate briefing in Akwete on Tuesday to affirm his status. Local APC chairmen Chiwuike Ekeke and Success Enyinnaya issued a communiqué stating that Nkwonta’s victory was certified by Erasmus Cishak, head of the National Assembly Primary Elections Committee. They maintained that Nkwonta remains the confirmed candidate for the 2027 election without any official substitution.
