Imo APP Condemns Alleged Ban on Aspirants for Orlu Senatorial Race

The Action Peoples Party (APP) in Imo State has condemned a declaration by the Orlu Political Consultative Assembly (OPOCA), which reportedly barred other aspirants from contesting the 2027 Orlu Zone senatorial election.

In a statement issued on Monday, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Steve Nnadi, described those behind the pronouncement as faceless actors who do not represent the genuine interests of the people of Orlu Zone.

The party said the directive was undemocratic, oppressive, and a violation of the principles of free, fair, and competitive elections.

According to the APP, no group or assembly has the constitutional authority to prevent qualified aspirants from exercising their political rights.

It warned that attempts to impose a sole candidate under any guise undermine internal democracy and disenfranchise the electorate.

The party maintained that residents of Orlu Zone must be allowed to freely choose their representatives without coercion, intimidation, or imposed consensus arrangements.

It further cautioned that suppressing political participation could fuel resentment and weaken democratic institutions in the state.

Reaffirming its commitment to inclusiveness and democratic values, the APP urged all eligible aspirants to remain resolute and continue their consultations, assuring them that no individual or group can override the will of the people in a constitutional democracy.

The party also called on security agencies and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take note of the development and ensure that the 2027 electoral process remains open, transparent, and credible for all participants.