Three APC Aspirants in Imo North Explain Voluntary Step‑Down for Senator Patrick Ndubueze
The three former aspirants — Longers Anyanwu, Gloria Akobundu and Kennedy Ike Odoeme — said they withdrew from the APC senatorial primary for Imo North shortly before voting began, citing the existing zoning arrangement that favoured the incumbent senator, Patrick Ndubueze.
They described their decision as voluntary and urged their supporters to back Ndubueze during the exercise.
The aspirants, who were regarded as strong contenders, noted that their withdrawal helped ensure a peaceful and orderly primary in the district.
Anyanwu, Akobundu and Odoeme affirmed that Ndubueze secured the APC senatorial ticket for Imo North and called on the public to ignore any reports suggesting a different outcome.
According to them, the primary results were properly collated and announced by the returning officer appointed by the APC National Working Committee, and party members participated freely without intimidation, disruption or violence.
They characterised the APC primaries in Imo State, especially in Imo North, as hitch‑free and devoid of the wrangling that has often accompanied similar contests.
The trio praised party members and supporters for their disciplined and mature conduct, which they said strengthened the credibility of the exercise and demonstrated the party’s unity.
They also acknowledged the Renewed Hope Ambassadors for coordinating the presidential primary collation process across the state.
Finally, the former aspirants appealed to the public and APC members to disregard any claims challenging Ndubueze’s emergence, stressing that the focus should now shift to unity and preparation for the 2027 general election.
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