2027: “Avoid Sentiments,” Group Urges Ohafia/Arochukwu Electorates

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Abia Progressive Frontiers (APF), a prominent political group, has called on voters in the Ohafia and Arochukwu Local Government Areas to resist the temptation of voting based on religion or local government origins.

Focusing on the House of Representatives race for the constituency, the group urged electorates to prioritize candidates’ competence, accountability, and proven track records over sentimental considerations.

APF further tasked voters with demanding tangible evidence of achievements from incumbent political leaders seeking re-election, insisting that elected officials must be held to higher standards of performance and service.

These were among the key resolutions outlined in a communiqué issued after a three-day APC retreat held in Ohafia LGA, signed by the group’s coordinator, Ogbonna Augustine, on Sunday.

The group emphasized the need for voters to remain politically conscious during the 2027 elections, stressing the importance of selecting credible representatives who can effectively advocate for the constituency’s interests in the House of Representatives, rather than choosing candidates solely based on their local government of origin.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the current representation, APF lamented the lack of visible impact from their representative when compared to neighboring constituencies. They decried the continued neglect of numerous pressing challenges and noted that the constituency’s voice in the National Assembly has been weakened.

The group urged voters to critically evaluate all candidates, demanding comprehensive development plans and verifiable action strategies for the growth and advancement of the region.

“We must resist the temptation to be influenced by primordial sentiments of ethnicity and religion in the forthcoming elections,” APF stated.

“Voters should demand the results and scorecards of incumbents seeking reelection and require first-time candidates to present realistic and workable action plans.

“Members of the House of Representatives owe it as a duty to complement the efforts of the Senators and Governors but unfortunately it’s a sad tale in Ohafia and Arochukwu and that must change come 2027.

“It is no longer about where you come from but about your competence and track record, APF stated.

Highlighting the disparity in infrastructure development and empowerment initiatives between their constituency and others, APF criticized political officeholders who have failed to deliver on their promises, while commending those who have lived up to expectations.

They stressed that the major cause of misgovernance in the country is the persistent tendency to vote along religious and ethnic lines, rather than adhering to the true principles of democracy.

Comprising lawyers, community leaders, technocrats, youths, and women leaders, the APF also announced plans to launch a mass voter orientation campaign ahead of the 2027 general elections.