Senator Nkechi Nwaogu Quits APC for NDC Ahead of Abia Central Primary

Former Senator representing Abia Central Senatorial District, Distinguished Senator Nkechi Justina Nwaogu, has officially dumped the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), ahead of the party’s senatorial primary election scheduled for May 29, 2026.

Nwaogu, a former member of the House of Representatives and two-term Senator, was widely regarded as one of the strongest pillars of the APC in Abia State, earning the popular nickname “Mama APC” among party loyalists.

Her decision to leave the ruling party is believed to be connected to the outcome of the recent APC senatorial primary election, where her longtime political rival, Hon. Emeka Atuma, emerged victorious. Sources close to the former senator disclosed that she was dissatisfied with both the conduct and outcome of the exercise, although she has maintained silence publicly since the declaration of results.

Speculations about ongoing negotiations between Senator Nwaogu and the NDC had surfaced over a week ago, prompting several APC leaders and stakeholders to intensify reconciliation efforts in a bid to retain her in the party. However, recent developments indicate that she has now concluded plans to formally align with the NDC.

Political observers, however, believe her defection may trigger legal and electoral debates following the Independent National Electoral Commission’s closure of new party membership registration and e-registration submissions on May 10, 2026.

Some members of the National Working Committee, who spoke anonymously to journalists, expressed concerns that recent court rulings creating temporary openings for defectors could eventually be overturned by higher courts. According to them, the legal uncertainty surrounding the matter may pose serious risks for the NDC if future judicial interpretations invalidate such defections.

Meanwhile, barring any last-minute changes, Senator Nwaogu is expected to formally declare for the NDC today at her Okpu Umuobo country home, setting the stage for her participation in the party’s forthcoming Abia Central Senatorial primary election.

Source: News Mirror