By Charity Uwakwe

“In a moment that has sparked intense political conversations ahead of the 2027 general elections, APC aspirant Mark Ugorji has made bold revelations about his behind-the-scenes contributions to the party—claims that are now reshaping narratives around loyalty, sacrifice, and representation in Abia State.”

“Mark Ugorji, an APC aspirant for Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, has stirred reactions after revealing his past financial support to the party and declaring his 2027 ambition, emphasizing experience, grassroots impact, and political equity.”

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, Sir Mark Ugorji, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and an aspirant for the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, has stirred fresh reactions following a high-level engagement with party stakeholders in Ikwuano Local Government Area of Abia State.

Ugorji, a native of Okwu-Olokoro in Umuahia South LGA, used the opportunity to highlight his longstanding contributions to the APC, while appealing for support as he seeks to represent the constituency at the House of Representatives.

Renowned for his philanthropic antecedents, Ugorji reaffirmed his commitment to extending development initiatives across Ikwuano and the broader federal constituency.

Addressing the Ikwuano chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) party stakeholders yesterday, at Ndoro, the residence of Major Emmanuel Awah, he expressed gratitude for their unity and reception, stating that their support remains critical to the party’s continued growth.

Recounting his early involvement in the APC, Ugorji declared:

“When APC was at its earliest stage, I was among those who ensured it became firmly rooted. There were times the party could not pay salaries under the leadership of Hon. Donatus Nwamkpa, and I personally intervened.”

He further disclosed that he often hosted party visitors from Abuja at his own expense to ensure Abia State maintained a strong presence within the party structure.

“When the party had visitors from Abuja, they were referred to me because I had the resources to take care of them. We made sure Abia was properly represented,” he added.

Ugorji also revealed that during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, he provided vehicles to support membership mobilization efforts.
“We did all these things, yet we were not compensated,” he noted.

Despite this, he commended the current APC leadership in Abia State, particularly the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu.
“That is why I appreciate Benjamin Kalu. He is a young leader who promotes unity and has sustained it within the party,” Ugorji said.

He further revealed his role as Coordinator of the Umuahia South Renewed Hope Partners, a position he said strengthened the party’s grassroots mobilization before its expansion.

Declaring his ambition, Ugorji said:

“I have come to inform the people of Ikwuano that I intend to represent Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency. We are one people, and I am ready to serve.”

Highlighting his qualifications, he emphasized his experience, network, and national-level connections.

“I have the capacity, the character, and the connections. Governance is about relationships, and I have built these over decades,” he said.

Ugorji also made bold claims regarding his involvement in major national infrastructure projects, including the Second Niger Bridge and the Akwanga–Gombe road project.

“You cannot tell the story of the Second Niger Bridge without mentioning my role. I was among the first consultants who made the project workable,” he asserted.

On constituency development, he pledged:

“If given the mandate, I will construct a road
linking Olokoro through Nnono to Ikwuano.”

He cited personal investments in road infrastructure within his community as evidence of his commitment to development.

Stakeholders’ Reactions

Responding, the Ikwuano APC Chairman, Chief Chinedu Adindu, appreciated Ugorji’s visit and goodwill.

“We thank you for coming and for your kind words. We pray that God grants you success,” he said.

Speaking on behalf of stakeholders, Hon. Johnson Nwachukwu expressed confidence in Ugorji’s credentials:

“We have listened to your achievements and your vision. We are satisfied and believe you have the capacity to represent us effectively.”
He also emphasized the importance of equity and zoning in the constituency:

“Equity and justice demand that power shifts appropriately. This time, the opportunity presents itself differently.”

In a notable remark, he added:

“We know it behooves you to rise to the occasion. Keep the light cool, and at the right time, we will do the needful.”

However, he cautioned against the recurring pattern of unfulfilled political promises:
“When you get to Abuja, do not forget the people of Ikwuano. Many have made promises that never materialized.” He wailed.

Meanwhile, the meeting which was attended by stakeholders of the party was attended by Hon. Emeka, Major General Emmanuel Awah (Rtd.), the state youth coordinator, Hon. Tony Alaribe, among others.