The All Progressives Congress (APC) has commenced the screening of 24 aspirants seeking to contest for seats in the Enugu State House of Assembly, in a process party officials say reflects growing internal cohesion and consensus-building.
The screening exercise, led by the Chairman of the APC House of Assembly Screening Committee, Comrade Lucky Porki, is taking place amid commendations for what the party described as a unified front within its Enugu chapter.
One Aspirant Per Constituency
Addressing party members, Porki disclosed that the party received 24 aspirants—one from each of the 24 state constituencies—following the close of submission for Expression of Interest and Nomination Forms.
He noted that while the number simplifies the screening process, the party remains committed to due process in line with electoral laws and internal guidelines.
“We have 24 aspirants for the 24 constituencies, but we will thoroughly examine their credentials to ensure they are qualified to represent their people,” he said.
Porki emphasised that the screening would strictly adhere to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act, and the APC’s constitution and guidelines.
Appeal Committee Set Up
The committee also confirmed that a Screening Appeal Committee has been constituted to address complaints arising from the exercise.
According to Porki, aggrieved aspirants or party members are free to seek redress through the appeal panel once the screening process is concluded.
APC Applauds Mbah, Party Leadership
In a notable development, the screening committee commended Enugu State Governor Peter Mbah, party executives, and stakeholders for fostering unity and consensus within the party.
The panel described the level of cooperation and internal democracy in the state chapter as exemplary, recommending it as a model for other APC chapters nationwide.
“We commend the leadership and members of the party in Enugu State for their synergy and commitment to peace and party loyalty,” Porki said.
Call for Fairness and Transparency
Also speaking, the APC State Chairman, Dr. Martin Chukwunweike, praised the party’s national leadership and screening panels for ensuring a level playing field for all aspirants.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the state chapter to transparent and credible processes as the party prepares for upcoming elections.
Committee Composition
Members of the screening committee include Barrister Mary Ejiro (Secretary), Chief Godpower Asighwu, and Hon. Juliet Amaraeghu.
The Screening Appeal Committee is chaired by Dr. Dillion Oyowa, with Umokoro Enomioghene Samuel serving as Secretary and Hon. Desmond Okpako Duke as a member.
Political observers say the smooth screening process and consensus approach could strengthen the APC’s chances in Enugu State, traditionally a stronghold of opposition politics.
