In a significant move for the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Rivers State, Chief Tony Okocha has been elected as the new chairman during the recently held state delegate congress in Port Harcourt. Okocha, who previously served as the party’s Caretaker Committee Chairman, was elected unopposed along with other executive members. The congress took place smoothly and was presided over by Dr. Adoye Omalez, representing the national chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje. This election marks a pivotal step in the APC’s efforts to strengthen its position as a united front in Rivers State as they set their sights on future governance.
Following the election, APC National Vice Chairman for the South-South, Chief Victor Giadom, praised the party members for their peaceful conduct during the delegate congress. Giadom emphasized that the smooth manner of the elections demonstrates the unity within the APC in Rivers State, contrary to previous doubts about the party’s cohesion. He urged party members to rally behind the new executives, emphasizing the need for collective support to advance the party’s agenda and promote political stability in the state.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Tony Okocha highlighted the successful and peaceful nature of the election, countering claims that the APC was disunited and incapable of organizing a proper election. Okocha expressed gratitude to President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s achievements, notably the resumption of operations at the Port Harcourt Refinery. He asserted that the party is committed to building on these accomplishments to pave the way for electoral success in Rivers State. Okocha’s emotional address underscored the genuine support from party members, affirming a shared commitment to the party’s objectives.
Okocha’s vision for the APC includes a determined focus on the upcoming 2027 elections, with aspirations to attain governance across various political levels, including local governments, the State Assembly, and the National Assembly. He expressed confidence that the APC would reclaim the governorship of Rivers State, attributing this ambition to the dedication of party members and the positives emerging from President Tinubu’s initiatives. Okocha reassured attendees that the APC would overcome challenges posed by the incumbent government, working diligently to regain political control.
The newly elected chairman also referenced the broader context of national challenges, indicating that the ongoing revitalization of refineries, including those in Kaduna and Warri, is critical for alleviating Nigeria’s economic issues. He emphasized the importance of patience in political processes, assuring members that the groundwork laid in less than two years would yield tangible results. Okocha’s remarks were both optimistic and pragmatic, calling attention to the need for unity and cooperation among party members to achieve their common goals.
The delegate congress saw the election of several other key positions within the party structure, including Deputy Chairman, Secretary, Publicity Secretary, Youth Leader, and Women Leader, among others. The supervision of the congress was overseen by Dr. Joseph Alalibo, the state resident electoral commissioner, ensuring compliance with electoral guidelines. The successful congress reflects a reinvigorated APC in Rivers State, setting a course for future political engagements and reinforcing the party’s commitment to viable governance and leadership under Chief Tony Okocha’s stewardship.
