Following the release of the final list of candidates for the 2027 National Assembly elections by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), arising from the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election conducted on May 19, 2026, former Senator representing Imo North Senatorial District, Senator Ifeanyi Araraume, has distanced himself from media publication with the title: "A Message of Gratitude, Unity and a Clarion Call to Rebuild Okigwe Zone" alleging in the publication that he had reclaimed or secured the APC senatorial ticket for the district.
In a press statement issued by his media office as disclaimer, malicious and false, Senator Araraume described the reports circulating on various social media platforms as unauthorized. The statement maintained that he neither approved nor authorized the publication of such claims, reiterating that he remains a law-abiding member of the APC who respects the party's constitution and democratic processes.
The clarification comes amid widespread online speculation suggesting that the APC ticket for Imo North Senatorial District had been awarded to the former senator. However, the publication of INEC's final list of candidates has reaffirmed Senator Patrick C. Ndubueze as the duly recognized APC candidate for the district.
Senator Ndubueze had earlier emerged victorious in the APC direct primary election, polling 108,826 votes, while Senator Araraume secured 79 votes, according to the results announced by the Chairman of the APC National Assembly Primary Election Committee for Imo State, Rear Admiral Williams Kayoda (Rtd.).
With the conclusion of the nomination process, Senator Ndubueze has intensified efforts to consolidate on his victory by strengthening party structures and mobilizing support across the six local government areas of Imo North Senatorial District ahead of the forthcoming general election.
In a related development, Longers Anyanwu, who previously aspired for the APC ticket for the Imo North Senatorial Zone, but later stepped down in support of Senator Ndubueze during the party primaries, has successfully passed screening by the Imo State House of Assembly following his nomination by the Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Odidika Uzodimma, CON, as a Commissioner-designate.
Meanwhile, Senator Patrick Ndubueze has expressed profound appreciation to the leadership of the APC in Imo State, under the chairmanship of Hon. Austine Onyedebelu, for what he described as their unwavering support, steadfast commitment, and dedication to the unity and progress of the party.
The senator also commended Governor Hope Uzodimma for his exemplary leadership and continued commitment to strengthening the APC in Imo State, noting that the governor's support and adherence to due process have further reinforced confidence in the party's democratic ideals as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
Report By Fredrick Njoku