Imo Assembly Chief Whip, Nwaneri, 11 Other Members Lose Return Tickets at APC Primaries
By Nigerian Politico
At least 12 serving members of the Imo State House of Assembly lost their bids to return to the House during the All Progressives Congress, APC, primaries for the 2027 general elections held on Wednesday 20th May 2026.
The affected lawmakers include the Chief Whip and member representing Oru East State Constituency, Chigozie Nwaneri,. Others who lost their third-term bids are Uche Agabige of Orsu, Chidiebere Ogbunikpa of Okigwe, Clinton Amadi of Owerri Municipal, Dominic Ezerioha of Oru West and Johnson Duru of Ideato South.
Several lawmakers seeking second terms also failed to secure their party’s tickets. They include Ikenna Ihezue of Orlu, Kingsley Ozurumba of Isu, Kelechi Ofurum of Owerri North, and Johnleoba of Ikeduru.
Two members who attempted to move to the National Assembly were also unsuccessful. James Esile of Onuimo lost his ticket in the bid for the House of Representatives, as did Sam Otuibe of Ahiazu Mbaise
Former Speaker Rt. Hon. Kennedy Ibeh, who is currently serving his third term, did not seek re-election. Similarly, the current Speaker, Chike Olemgbe, did not contest, as the zoning arrangement in his constituency did not favour him.
Political observers note that several APC candidates heading into the 2027 elections are considered unpopular in their constituencies. With the primaries concluded, attention has shifted to how the party’s flag bearers will fare at the polls next year.
