A political support group for President Bola Tinubu has warned that the Imo APC senatorial ticket dispute could trigger backlash across the South-East.
The Renewed Hope Foot Soldiers for Tinubu (RHFST) said the controversy could weaken party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group raised concerns over a Federal High Court ruling on the Imo West senatorial ticket. The court recognised former Imo State Governor Rochas Okorocha as the APC’s duly elected candidate for the district.
In a statement on Saturday, RHFST National President, Gbenga Owojori, said the dispute could affect political alliances beyond Imo State.
Group Raises Concerns Over Uzodimma’s Political Ambition
RHFST expressed concern over the possible political consequences for Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.
The governor, a former senator, reportedly wants to become Senate President in the next National Assembly.
The group described Uzodimma as a potential contender for the position. It also claimed that political leaders across party lines support his ambition.
According to RHFST, the Imo West dispute could change political calculations surrounding the leadership of the 11th Senate.
“The dispute over the Imo West ticket has consequences beyond the constituency. It has altered the political calculations surrounding the Senate presidency,” the group stated.
Group Mentions Akpabio, Wike In Dispute
The group also raised concerns about alleged political manoeuvres involving Senate President Godswill Akpabio and FCT Minister Nyesom Wike.
It referenced claims that Akpabio might oppose Uzodimma’s emergence as a potential rival for the Senate presidency.
RHFST also mentioned allegations that Wike could pursue a legal challenge against the Imo governor.
The group further cited claims that Wike influenced the court proceedings. Uzodimma’s supporters had also accused the minister of threatening the governor.
However, RHFST acknowledged that investigators and the courts had not established these allegations as facts.
“These are serious claims and should not be treated as established facts. The judgment must be assessed on its legal merits,” the group said.
The organisation called for clarification over statements attributed to Wike. It also urged Nigerians to protect confidence in the independence of the judiciary.
APC Urged To Ensure Transparent Nomination Process
RHFST called on APC leaders to make their nomination processes transparent.
The group warned against excluding political aspirants to protect another individual’s interests.
It argued that Uzodimma deserved consideration based on his political experience, record and support base.
RHFST also warned that perceived marginalisation could create dissatisfaction among South-East political leaders and party supporters.
According to the group, such dissatisfaction could weaken grassroots mobilisation and party unity ahead of 2027.
“The President needs a united party and the confidence of political allies across the country. If the South-East believes its support is welcome only when votes are needed, but its candidates are obstructed when power is being shared, the consequences could extend well beyond Imo State,” it said.
The group urged APC leaders to embrace inclusive dialogue and resolve the dispute.
It added that maintaining confidence among regional political allies would remain important as the party prepares for the 2027 elections.
