Abia APC Governorship Candidate Eric Opah Rejects Alliance Claims Ahead of 2027 Election

Chief Eric Opah, the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate for the Abia State governorship, addressed reporters in Umuahia on Saturday, 7 November 2026, to refute rumours of any political alliance for the 2027 election. Opah said the APC would contest the governorship independently and that any potential coalition would have to approach his party, citing the strength of his manifesto and support base.

During the briefing, Opah outlined several programmes he intends to implement if elected in 2027. He pledged to review and harmonise the state’s tax regime to prevent over‑taxation of residents and businesses. He also promised to revisit the recent mass dismissal of civil servants, arguing that compulsory retirement after eight years in post should be replaced by the statutory retirement age of 60 or 35 years of service.

Opah criticised the current administration of Governor Alex Otti, claiming that despite receiving more than N1.8 trillion from the Federation Account and monthly allocations of at least N350 million to each local government, little tangible development has occurred. He accused the Otti government of flagging off projects, such as the Abia Innovation and Industrial Park, without delivering results, and of restricting financial autonomy for local councils.

Background

The Abia State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) recently declared its support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re‑election in the 2027 presidential poll, a move announced at the inauguration of the state’s Presidential Campaign Council in Umuahia. PDP deputy governorship candidate Abraham Amah, speaking on behalf of Dr Kelechi Anosike, expressed hope that the APC would reciprocate by supporting the PDP in the governorship race. Opah’s statements directly countered that expectation, reaffirming the APC’s intention to run alone.

Both Sun News and Punch reported that Opah’s campaign focuses on transparency, empathy, and economic revitalisation. He highlighted plans to empower market associations, introduce competition in the transport sector, and ensure access to sophisticated healthcare for all Abians. The candidate also stressed that the APC would not rely on social‑media hype but would deliver substantive governance.

Why it matters

The 2027 Abia governorship contest is a key battleground for the APC and PDP ahead of the presidential election, with both parties seeking to consolidate support in the South‑East. Opah’s refusal to ally with the PDP could shape coalition dynamics and affect the distribution of votes for President Tinubu’s re‑election bid, which the PDP has publicly endorsed at the state level.

If Opah’s tax reforms and civil‑service policies are implemented, they could alter fiscal pressures on businesses and public employees, potentially influencing investment and employment in the state. His criticism of the current administration’s use of federal allocations underscores ongoing concerns about accountability and project delivery, issues that resonate with voters who feel underserved despite substantial federal funding.

What happens next

The APC will continue its campaign across Abia State, promoting Opah’s manifesto and seeking to mobilise its claimed large followership. The PDP is expected to maintain its support for President Tinubu while fielding its own governorship candidate. Both parties will likely intensify outreach as the 2027 election approaches, with the final candidate lists and any formal coalition agreements to be confirmed in the months leading up to the poll.