The political landscape in Abia State has taken a sharp turn as the state chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) moved to sideline a prominent figure, Dr. Uchechukwu Sampson Ogah. The former Minister of Mines and Steel Development is facing a “resurrected” suspension from the party, a move directly linked to his vocal and uncompromising support for the re-election of Governor Alex Otti in 2027.
The friction reached a boiling point following a recent civic reception in Isuikwuato, held to honor the state’s Attorney-General, Barr. Ikechukwu Uwanna. During the event, Ogah—who was the APC’s gubernatorial candidate in 2019—publicly declared that his support for both President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Otti is non-negotiable. He praised the Governor for delivering “visible and impactful” governance, noting that the positive changes in the state have even reduced his personal monthly charity expenses by ₦50 million, as civil servants and pensioners are now being paid regularly.
This public endorsement of a Labour Party governor did not sit well with the APC leadership. The party’s State Publicity Secretary, Chief Uche Aguoru, swiftly characterized Ogah as a “mole” and a “saboteur” working against the party’s interests. According to the APC, the goal for 2027 is a unified front under the leadership of Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu to win across all levels, making Ogah’s stance fundamentally incompatible with the party’s mission.
In a follow-up legal move, the Abia APC Legal Adviser, Vigilus Chukwudi Nwankwo, announced that there was no need for a fresh suspension process. Instead, the party reaffirmed a disciplinary action allegedly initiated at the ward and local government levels back in 2022. Citing the party’s constitution, Nwankwo maintained that Ogah remains a suspended member due to anti-party activities that could undermine the APC’s chances in the upcoming general elections.
However, Dr. Ogah and his political associates are not backing down. Speaking through the Abia Rejoice Movement, the former Minister defended his position as one rooted in patriotism rather than partisanship. The group accused the state APC leadership of hypocrisy, pointing out that several other prominent APC members have praised Governor Otti’s performance without facing similar backlash.
Reports suggest that Ogah’s supporters are drawing parallels to the national level, where the APC has previously embraced figures from opposition parties who showed favor toward their cause. The movement insists that acknowledging progress in Abia is a sign of political maturity. They have urged the state’s political actors to stop focusing on internal distractions and instead prioritize the development and welfare of the people.
