In a dramatic twist highlighting the internal wrangling within Nigeria’s ruling party, former Governor of Imo State and Senator representing Imo West, Rochas Okorocha, has strongly denied reports attributing to him a scathing remark against the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the alleged quote as “fabricated and politically motivated.”
The quote in question, widely circulated across social and online platforms, claimed Okorocha had said: “APC is no longer a political party but a party desperate to hijack power at all costs. I am at the corner looking at them.”
In a swift rebuttal, the former governor dismissed the statement as the handiwork of political adversaries threatened by his enduring relevance, nearly a decade after leaving office.
“Okorocha would never describe a party that has been in government since 2015 and still counting as ‘desperate to hijack power’. What power again?” a statement from his media team read.
The rebuttal continued with a thinly veiled jab at political rivals: “Almost eight years after leaving office as Executive Governor of Imo State, and several years after serving as Senator representing Imo West, those with a phobia of Rochas Okorocha still cannot sleep with their two eyes closed.”
Reaffirming his allegiance, Okorocha emphasized that he remains a “bonafide, committed member of the APC”, calling the viral quote a calculated attempt by detractors “envious of his political journey” to distort public perception and stoke internal division within the party.
Political analysts viewed the episode as a reflection of growing tensions within the APC, as key figures position themselves ahead of the next electoral cycle. The controversy also raises concerns over the increasing weaponization of misinformation in Nigeria’s political landscape.
As the 2027 general elections loom closer, the ruling party may face not just opposition from rival parties but internal battles of perception, loyalty, and power—a test of unity for the coalition that has governed Nigeria for nearly a decade.
