The All Progressives Congress (APC) United Volunteers have risen in defence of party stalwart, Sir Azuka Okwuosa, following criticisms trailing the recent Anambra South senatorial rerun election.
In a statement signed by Ogbonna Egenti and Cyril Okoronkwo on Tuesday, the group described the attacks against Okwuosa as “opportunistic and unfair,” particularly from individuals who allegedly failed to contribute to the party’s electoral effort.
The group accused some critics of supporting rival parties during the elections. They singled out Emeka Anohu, whom they alleged worked for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and Joy Emordi, who was said to have openly supported the Labour Party in 2023 but now poses as a “super stakeholder” in APC.
They further criticized Reverend Uche Ibeabuchi, Golden, and Phil Agbasi for demanding accountability despite not participating in the election.
The statement also alleged that the party’s Zonal Organizing Secretary, Dozie Ikedife, mishandled campaign resources meant for Nnewi North and covertly supported rival candidate, Obinna Uzoh.
In addition, the volunteers accused the APC gubernatorial candidate, Nicholas Ukachukwu, of sabotaging Okwuosa by withholding campaign funds, despite failing to secure victory in his own polling unit, ward, and local government.
Despite the challenges, the group commended Okwuosa for delivering 19,000 votes, which they described as a solid foundation for APC’s future growth in Anambra. They urged the party to close ranks, stressing that internal divisions only strengthen political opponents.