A major political gathering in Abia State turned electrifying as prominent businessman and grassroots politician, Ifeanyi Elvis Ogbonna, sparked widespread jubilation at a high-level rally convened by Abia North Senator Orji Uzor Kalu.
The event, held on March 13 at Camp Neya in Igbere Kalu’s country home, brought together some of the state’s most influential political figures under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
It marked the first-quarter tripartite meeting of the OUK Movement, the Reality Organisation, and the APC—three of the largest political support structures in Abia State.
The meeting was convened to reinforce party unity, strengthen grassroots mobilisation, and dispel lingering speculations of internal divisions following the recently concluded APC congresses at state, local government, and ward levels.
In attendance were key party stakeholders, including Abia APC State Secretary, Chief Chidi Avajah; former Speaker of the Abia State House of Assembly, Chinedum Orji; and several leaders of the OUK Movement and Reality Organisation.
Ignes’ Arrival Turns Event Festive
While the arrival of dignitaries drew applause, the atmosphere shifted dramatically into a carnival-like celebration with the entrance of Ifeanyi Elvis Ogbonna.
Dressed in a white traditional outfit complemented by a red cap, Ogbonna’s appearance triggered an outpouring of excitement as hundreds of attendees surged forward, abandoning their seats to welcome him.
Supporters comprising APC members and loyalists of the OUK Movement and Reality Organisation broke into chants in their native dialect, hailing him as “the only son we know.” The surge of enthusiasm required the intervention of security personnel to restore order as he made his way to his seat.
Moments later, another wave of cheers erupted when he was invited to address the gathering.
Message of Unity and Strength
In his remarks, Ogbonna struck a conciliatory and unifying tone, emphasizing loyalty to party leadership and collective resolve ahead of future elections.
“We are gathered here to feel the impact of Distinguished Senator Orji Uzor Kalu who has brought us all together in unity. I am a man of few words, and I commend him for this initiative,” he said.
“In full collaboration with the party, the OUK Movement and the Reality Organisation, we all stand together to unite ourselves to win all elections,” he added, drawing sustained applause.
His address set the tone for the meeting, as party stakeholders reiterated their commitment to unity and electoral success ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Endorsements and Grassroots Backing
Party members and supporters who spoke to journalists attributed their enthusiastic reception of Ogbonna to his longstanding contributions to the APC’s growth, particularly his support for grassroots mobilisation and funding of party activities in Arochukwu and Ohafia.
Many described him as the preferred candidate for the 2027 House of Representatives seat for Arochukwu/Ohafia Federal Constituency, citing his capacity, acceptance, and political influence.
APC Leaders Dismiss Division Claims
Addressing concerns over factionalisation, Chief Chidi Avajah dismissed claims of internal divisions within the party.
“There is no such thing as the OUK faction, Emenike faction, or Benjamin faction. We are one,” he declared, expressing confidence in the party’s prospects in 2027.
Similarly, Chinedum Orji reaffirmed loyalty to Kalu’s leadership and the APC structure, urging members to remain united and focused.
Kalu Reaffirms Unity, Sets 2027 Target
In his address, Orji Uzor Kalu urged party members to remain peaceful while intensifying political engagement across the state. He dismissed reports of discontent following the congresses and denied any rift with Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu.
“There is full reconciliation in APC, and anyone who dislikes it can move to another party,” he stated.
The former governor expressed optimism that the APC would secure victory across all elective positions in Abia by 2027, including delivering the state for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“In 2023, we did not secure enough votes for the president, but by 2027, we must unite and show commitment to deliver Abia for him,” he said.
Momentum Builds Ahead of 2027
Further reinforcing the political momentum, a frontline APC support group the Concerned Progressives of Arochukwu and Ohafia has openly endorsed Ifeanyi Elvis Ogbonna for the 2027 House of Representatives race.
In a statement signed by its General Secretary, Engr. Ifeanyi Iheaka, the group warned that the party risks losing the constituency if Ogbonna is denied the ticket.
Describing him as a “consensus candidate” with cross-party appeal, the group maintained that his candidacy represents a strategic opportunity for the APC to secure its first victory in the constituency.
They further highlighted his grassroots acceptance, political influence, and deep understanding of local developmental challenges as key advantages.
A Show of Strength
The meeting concluded with renewed assurances of unity and collective resolve, as party leaders and support groups pledged to close ranks and intensify mobilisation efforts toward reclaiming power in Abia State.
For many Political analysts, the rally not only underscored the enduring influence of Senator Kalu but also signaled the rising political profile of Ifeanyi Ogbonna within the APC’s Abia structure.