The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has given Senator Orji Uzor Kalu and Chris Nkwonta 14 days to publicly apologise for comments the party described as anti-party and damaging to its chances in the 2027 governorship election.
The ultimatum was issued by the party’s State Working Committee, chaired by Chijioke Chukwu, after its meeting in Umuahia on Wednesday.
The development followed separate public remarks by Kalu and Nkwonta in support of Governor Alex Otti of the Labour Party ahead of the 2027 election.
Kalu, a former governor of Abia State, had reportedly said during a television interview that Otti would win re-election in 2027.
Nkwonta, meanwhile, publicly declared his intention to vote for Otti during a reception organised in Ukwa East for the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu.
The APC leadership said the statements were unacceptable, arguing that they amounted to conduct capable of undermining the party’s unity, image and electoral prospects in the state.
In a statement issued by the party’s Publicity Secretary, Uche Aguoru, the SWC described the comments as “unstatesmanlike” and embarrassing to the party.
The party said the actions also violated Article 21.2(11) of the APC Constitution, which provides for disciplinary measures against members whose conduct undermines the interests of the party.
Consequently, the SWC directed Kalu and Nkwonta to issue unreserved public apologies within 14 days and reaffirm their commitment to the APC and its candidates ahead of the 2027 elections.
The party warned that failure to comply with the directive would trigger further disciplinary action.
According to the APC, a disciplinary committee would be constituted if the two lawmakers failed to respond within the stipulated period, with the committee expected to recommend appropriate sanctions.
The ultimatum adds a fresh layer to the political contest in Abia, where the APC is seeking to unseat Otti and reclaim control of the state in 2027.
The party said it remained determined to close ranks, strengthen its structure and win the governorship as well as all legislative seats in the state at the next general elections.