The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) on Saturday held its campaign flag-off at Amike Playground, Ezzamgbo, in Ohaukwu Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, despite a directive from the council chairman restricting political gatherings at the venue.
The rally marked the formal commencement of APGA’s campaign in the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency ahead of the 2027 National Assembly elections. It featured solidarity marches, political speeches and appeals for peaceful political participation.
Ohaukwu Local Government Chairman, Mr. Eze Paul Itumo, had directed the organisers to cancel the event, citing security concerns. He said intelligence available to the council indicated that hoodlums could exploit the gathering to cause a breakdown of law and order.
In a statement, Itumo warned organisers and prospective participants against proceeding with the rally, saying security agencies had been briefed. He also described defiance of government directives as an act of lawlessness.
Despite the directive, APGA leaders, traditional representatives, youths, women and supporters from across the constituency attended the rally.
Speaking at the event, APGA’s candidate for the Ebonyi/Ohaukwu Federal Constituency, Barrister Tochukwu Ogalagu, urged supporters to remain peaceful and avoid retaliation if provoked.
“Always report every attack to the appropriate quarters, including me. It will be addressed properly. Please, don’t retaliate,” Ogalagu said.
He said his campaign was focused on development, effective representation and accountable leadership, listing improved access to water, electricity, roads and social services among his priorities.
National President of the Ojimba Youth Movement, Shedrack Nwankwegu, said the group supported APGA’s candidates because of what he described as their contributions to education, employment and youth empowerment. APGA’s Ohaukwu chairman, Chikezie Onwe, said the party offered voters an alternative political platform, while its Ebonyi North-East State Constituency candidate, Joe Obiya, expressed confidence in the party’s grassroots support.
Meanwhile, some Ohaukwu indigenes have appealed to the council chairman to avoid statements or actions they believe could intimidate opposition parties. One resident, who spoke anonymously on social media, urged the chairman to uphold the rights of residents regardless of their political affiliation and promote peace, tolerance and democratic participation.
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