Abia 2027: APC's Eric Opah Denies Alliance, Confident of Victory

The All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship hopeful for Abia State, Eric Opah, has put to rest speculations regarding a potential coalition with any other candidate in the state. He further declared his resolve to secure the state's top seat in 2027, backed by the comprehensive programmes he has outlined.

Addressing journalists on Saturday in Umuahia, Opah stated, “This briefing has become important to dispel the rumours ongoing regarding possible alliance with any other candidates.” He affirmed his commitment to the race, saying, “I just want to show you that Eric Opah is in the race as a candidate of APC, the party at the centre to win. I am not in alliance with anyone as far as the APC membership contest is concerned.”

Opah asserted his suitability, adding, “If there is anybody that other candidates should align with, I think it should be me. Not only that I am very qualified, but my agenda is very clear.” He promised that his administration, if elected governor in 2027, would offer a credible alternative, focusing on transparency, empathy for the people, and a review of the state’s tax regime affecting Abians and local businesses. While acknowledging the necessity of taxes for government survival, he stressed the importance of avoiding a “Draconian tax regime.”

His agenda also includes addressing the mass dismissal of civil servants, ensuring prudent management of local government funds, and guaranteeing access to sophisticated healthcare for all Abians. Regarding job creation and industrialization, Opah highlighted plans for civil servants’ promotions, empowering market associations to elect their leaders, fostering competition in the transport sector to reduce costs, and avoiding the launch of projects without readiness for execution.

“The government of APC, come 2027, will be a transparent government, a government with empathy and not going to be a government that is just only on a social media,” Opah declared. He emphasized a hands-on approach, stating, “We are not going to invite people to come and authenticate what we are doing. Our government is not going to be a government of noise.” Expressing strong confidence, he concluded, “So in 2027, I am confident that APC will win in Abia State. I think we have what it takes to take Abia to the next level.”

Concerning opposition candidates who, according to Opah, are endorsing President Bola Tinubu’s re-election in the state, he commented, “The president needs to be re-elected and given what the president has done for the South-East.” He insisted that the president merits support from all political parties. “Anyone that is not openly canvassing for Mr President’s re-election should go and re-examine his or her head. The truth about it is just that the president has done well for that to happen.”

Opah also projected an APC clean sweep in all elective positions, including the Senate, Federal House, and State Assembly. He assured that a victorious APC administration would be inclusive, accommodating members from other political parties who were not successful, to assemble the finest team for Abia’s development. “So we are not going to have these separations. What we will do when we win the election is that we sit down and for members of all the political parties who support us. There will be a handshake. And then we will effectively ensure that we all work together,” he stated.