INTERVIEW: Nigerians were fooled with Electoral Act amendment – APGA Chair, Obi-Okoye

Chief Ifeatu Obi-Okoye, a seasoned politician with many years of experience, currently serves as the Chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) in Anambra State. In an interview with DAILY POST’s David Eleke, Chief Obi-Okoye expresses dissatisfaction with the 2022 amended Electoral Act, asserting that it failed to address the public’s expectations. He criticizes the conduct of recent off-season elections in Imo, Kogi, and Bayelsa, suggesting a regression to old practices. The chairman also provides insights into the upcoming 2025 gubernatorial election in Anambra State and addresses challenges faced by APGA in recent elections.

Regarding the electoral process, Chief Obi-Okoye emphasizes the need for substantial reforms to ensure free and fair elections. He criticizes the 2022 electoral act, highlighting its failure to guarantee transparent accreditation of voters. The chairman expresses disappointment in the lack of effective reforms and points to the recent election results in Imo and Kogi as evidence of a return to past irregularities. He urges the National Assembly to address these issues through specific legislations.

Chief Obi-Okoye reflects on APGA’s performance in the last election, acknowledging a decrease in the number of seats in the House of Assembly. He attributes this decline to internal issues, including poorly conducted primaries and intra-party grievances. However, he expresses confidence in the party’s ability to perform better in the next election, citing ongoing efforts to rebuild and address internal challenges.

Addressing criticisms from former governorship candidates Obiora Okonkwo and Ifeanyi Ubah, Chief Obi-Okoye dismisses their opinions, particularly questioning Okonkwo’s political standing based on past electoral outcomes. He defends Governor Soludo’s performance, emphasizing achievements such as road construction, teacher employment, and youth empowerment.

As the Chairman of APGA in Anambra State for six months, Chief Obi-Okoye discusses the challenges faced and the strategies employed to revitalize the party. He mentions rebuilding trust, addressing intra-party grievances, and implementing discipline as key priorities. He also highlights efforts to involve grassroots supporters and support groups in party activities, emphasizing the party’s supremacy.

Looking ahead to the 2025 gubernatorial election, Chief Obi-Okoye downplays concerns about potential challengers to Governor Soludo, asserting that the governor’s focus should remain on good governance. He believes that the governor’s achievements, including infrastructure development, will resonate with voters during the campaign period.

In summary, Chief Ifeatu Obi-Okoye’s interview covers his perspectives on electoral reforms, APGA’s performance, internal challenges, and the party’s strategies for the future, including the upcoming gubernatorial election in Anambra State.