The leadership of a socio-political association known as “Nsukka Dị̀ Ọyị̀” has faulted the Enugu State Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr. Martin Chukwunwike, over his alleged endorsement of Chief Ikeji Asogwa for the Enugu North Senatorial seat.
The senatorial seat of the Enugu North Zone became vacant following the death of Senator Okey Ezea last year.
Consequently, the group has called for the immediate resignation of the APC state chairman over what it described as “unguarded utterances capable of causing political unrest” in the Enugu North Senatorial District.
Dr. Chukwunwike was reportedly seen in a video trending online earlier in the week endorsing Chief Ikeji Asogwa, a former Chairman of the Enugu State Housing Corporation, as the preferred candidate for the senatorial position. The development has since attracted widespread criticism from party members and concerned stakeholders across the zone.
Reacting to the development, the coordinator of Nsukka Dị̀ Ọyị̀, Chief Ezeja Ikechukwu, described the chairman’s remarks as irresponsible and indicative of poor leadership.
“This is completely unacceptable. A state chairman of a party who should unite the party has chosen to divide it. His conduct is shameful and dangerous. We cannot keep quiet while one individual drags the party into confusion and possible crisis in Enugu North Senatorial District,” he stated.
Chief Ezeja further described the endorsement of Asogwa as misguided, arguing that the former housing corporation boss lacks the capacity, discipline, and grassroots connection required to represent the people effectively at the Senate.
He also raised concerns over Asogwa’s lifestyle, alleging excessive indulgence and elitist tendencies, which he said are incompatible with responsible leadership.
The group questioned Asogwa’s competence, citing a contract awarded to him for the construction of ten smart schools in Igboeze South Local Government Area. According to Ezeja, one of the projects in Iheaka reportedly showed structural defects, which he described as evidence of incompetence and lack of accountability.
He queried how someone who allegedly failed to deliver on such a critical project could aspire to a higher office like the Senate, noting that such ambition raises serious concerns.
Ezeja emphasized that the Enugu North senatorial seat requires a leader who is humble, accessible, and deeply connected to the grassroots, not someone disconnected from the realities of the people.
He warned that imposing a candidate without credibility or public acceptance could have negative consequences for the APC in the zone, as party members and voters are becoming increasingly resistant to imposition.
The group also called on relevant security agencies to investigate both Dr. Chukwunwike and Chief Ikeji Asogwa over the endorsement and the allegations surrounding the projects, insisting on accountability for public office holders and aspirants.
Additionally, the group urged the APC leadership to intervene promptly by restoring discipline, fairness, and internal democracy within the party, warning that failure to act could deepen internal divisions and lead to electoral setbacks.
Ezeja maintained that the issue goes beyond mere endorsement, describing it as a reflection of arrogance and a disconnect from reality on the part of the APC chairman.
“We are not against ambition, but we are against imposition and recklessness. The chairman has clearly shown bias and poor judgment. He cannot continue in that office after making such statements that threaten the peace of our zone. He should resign immediately,” he added.
