Appoint Abia Indigene Minister To Make APC Job Easier, Nto Appeals To Tinubu

Charles Ajunwa, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Abia and former Finance Commissioner for the state, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to appoint an Abia native as a minister to replace Hon. Nkiriuka Onyechiocha, who resigned over six months ago. Prof. Nto raised concerns about the impact of Onyechiocha's absence on the status of Abia within the Federal Executive Council.

He argued that the delay in replacing Onyechiocha could hinder the APC's efforts to campaign for President Tinubu's reelection. Prof. Nto noted that states such as Oyo and Bauchi quickly replaced their ministers who resigned, while Abia's situation remains unresolved. He appealed to President Tinubu to act swiftly, emphasizing that appointing an Abia indigene as a minister would provide Abia's residents with a sense of belonging.

The APC member suggested that President Tinubu's action would simplify the party's job, as it would address questions posed by opposition parties regarding the lack of an Abia minister. Prof. Nto, who previously sought the APC senatorial nomination, called on President Tinubu to appoint any Abia native to the position, assuming a disagreement existed among stakeholders.

He informed APC stakeholders that they possess sufficient campaign materials for Tinubu and the APC due to the government's achievements over the past three years. These achievements include removing fuel subsidies, thereby freeing up additional funds for developmental initiatives at both the federal and state levels. Prof. Nto also highlighted that through Tinubu's leadership, an Igbo individual has held a key government position for the first time in eight years, while the South-east's road network is currently undergoing rehabilitation.