Okorocha debunks rumour of APC exit, labels reports as political propaganda

DDM News

Former Imo State Governor, Senator Rochas Okorocha, has denied reports suggesting he intends to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC).

He also refuted claims that he described the APC as a desperate political party seeking power at all costs.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) reports that Okorocha reacted through a press statement released by his Special Adviser on Media, Sam Onwuemeodo.

In the statement, Okorocha dismissed the viral story as a deliberate fabrication orchestrated by political enemies threatened by his enduring influence.

He stressed that he remains a foundational member of the APC and questioned why he would insult a party he helped to establish.

The former senator pointed out that the APC has held federal power since 2015 and continues to do so today.

He added that attributing such derogatory remarks to him defies logic, especially considering his role in the party’s formation.

“Almost eight years after leaving office, and several years since representing Imo West in the Senate, some people are still losing sleep over my political relevance,” the statement noted.

He lamented how a false quote was being circulated on social media to mislead the public and damage his reputation.

The widely circulated quote claimed Okorocha said, “APC is no longer a political party but a party desperate to hijack power at all costs.”

The statement clarified that the quote was entirely fake and not a reflection of his views.

Okorocha said it was illogical to describe a party already in government as being desperate to hijack power.

“What power again?” he asked rhetorically, pointing out that the APC currently controls the federal government.

He further reminded critics that he was the only sitting governor from the South-East who took the risk of joining the APC at its inception.

Okorocha emphasized that his decision to align with the APC in 2015 risked his political career but was driven by conviction.

At the time, most leaders in the South-East had dismissed the APC’s prospects and refused to join the new political alliance.

Despite the ridicule he faced, Okorocha stayed the course and championed the party’s growth in the region.

His efforts, he said, contributed significantly to the APC’s national profile and internal structure.

The statement noted that due to his commitment, fellow governors unanimously elected him the first Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum.

That forum, Okorocha maintained, has since grown into one of the party’s most formidable arms under his early leadership.

The former governor said that if he ever had grievances with the APC, he would voice them openly and constructively.

He insisted he would never resort to issuing “badly written social media posts” to air his views, as such behavior is not consistent with his political character.

Okorocha asserted that his political philosophy is rooted in transparency, loyalty, and a history of standing by his choices.

He expressed disappointment that some detractors continue to invest in misinformation aimed at maligning his image and weakening his political base.

He urged the public to disregard the viral report and to be wary of fake news designed to stoke division and confusion.

The media aide further warned that those behind the misinformation were pushing a calculated agenda to cause disaffection within the APC.

The statement concluded by reaffirming Okorocha’s continued loyalty to the APC and his readiness to support the party’s goals.

He advised party members and Nigerians at large to focus on building unity and strengthening democratic institutions.

With this declaration, Okorocha appears determined to clear the air and reaffirm his stake in the APC’s political journey.

As the 2027 election season gradually approaches, speculations and misinformation about key figures like Okorocha may continue to rise.

Observers believe that Okorocha’s name remains a significant force in South-East politics and national discourse.

His bold rebuttal may be seen as an early warning to political rivals who may wish to write him off or distort his legacy.

The APC, which came into power in 2015, has faced internal and external challenges but continues to command widespread influence across Nigeria.

Okorocha’s statement signals that he is not planning to abandon the party, despite lingering tensions and factional disputes.

Analysts note that Okorocha’s continued association with the APC could influence political calculations ahead of future elections.

The former governor’s media rebuttal may also serve to galvanize his supporters and reassert his relevance in national politics.

With his long record as a governor, senator, and founding APC member, Okorocha is not new to controversy or political maneuvering.

Whether this latest episode strengthen or undermines his future ambitions remains to be seen in the months ahead.

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