ABUJA (FN) The All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the cancellation of its earlier zoning arrangement that reserved the governorship ticket for Abia Central Zone, a move that has stirred debate within the party and across the state’s political landscape.
Party officials said the decision was taken to ensure inclusivity and broaden the field of aspirants ahead of the next election cycle. “We want to give every qualified member from all zones a fair chance,” a senior APC leader explained, noting that the party’s internal democracy must reflect balance and unity.
The reversal has sparked mixed reactions. Supporters of the change argue that it will strengthen the APC’s chances by allowing the most popular candidate to emerge, regardless of zone. Critics, however, say the cancellation undermines earlier commitments and could alienate stakeholders in Abia Central who had already mobilized around the zoning arrangement.
On social media, party loyalists expressed both relief and frustration. Some praised the APC for prioritizing merit over zoning, while others accused the leadership of playing politics with regional expectations. Political analysts warn that the decision could reshape alliances within the state, as aspirants from Abia North and Abia South are now expected to enter the race.
The APC’s move reflects a broader debate in Nigerian politics over zoning, a practice intended to balance power among regions but often criticized for limiting competition. As the party prepares for the governorship contest, observers say the outcome will test its ability to manage internal diversity while presenting a united front to voters.
