By Amaka Isikala
The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) has announced a bold programme of internal reforms aimed at repositioning the party as a disciplined, transparent, and nationally competitive political force.
The reforms were unveiled during a historic South-East Zonal Stakeholders’ meeting—described by party leaders as the first of its kind in over two decades—where top officials outlined a new direction focused on accountability, grassroots participation, and institutional integrity.
Leading the charge, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, Governor of Anambra State and National Leader of the party, delivered a blunt message against what he termed “mercenary politics.” He criticized the long-standing practice of politicians using parties as temporary platforms for personal ambition, insisting that such an era must end.
“We must build this party into a proper movement, not a mercenary platform,” Soludo said, adding that the days of “gift tickets” and transactional politics were over.
Central to the reform agenda is the digitization of the party’s membership register, a move the leadership says was completed in 2024. The new system is designed to guarantee equal participation rights for members, including the ability to vote and contest for positions.
APGA has also adopted the Option A-4 system for its primaries, a transparent voting method where party members openly queue behind their preferred candidates. The party believes this will enhance credibility and reduce electoral manipulation.
Further changes include a stricter candidate selection process. Aspirants will now be required to purchase an Expression of Interest form, undergo screening, and only then proceed to obtain a Nomination Form—measures aimed at ensuring quality control and seriousness among contenders.
Speaking on the broader reform roadmap, National Chairman Sly Ezeokenwa emphasized that the party would enforce a new code of conduct for its officials. Under the new rules, any party executive wishing to campaign for a candidate must first resign from their position to ensure neutrality.
In a bid to address financial sustainability, Soludo also proposed a return to a dues-based funding model, encouraging members to contribute regularly to the party’s upkeep rather than relying heavily on wealthy sponsors.
Earlier, State Chairman Ifeatu Obiokoye described the gathering as unprecedented and commended stakeholders for their unity, while South-East Vice Chairman Augustine Ehiemere acknowledged that although the party remains stable, its growth has been largely regionally concentrated.
Party leaders expressed optimism that the reforms would transform APGA into a stronger, values-driven institution capable of expanding beyond its traditional base and competing more effectively on the national stage.
Amaka is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
