Soludo declares end to ‘trade-by-barter’ politics in APGA, calls for party rebuilding

AWKA, Nigeria (NPA) — Governor of Anambra State, Prof. Charles Soludo, has declared that the era of “trade-by-barter” politics in the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) is over, stressing that the party will no longer serve as a platform for personal ambition or the issuance of “gift tickets.”

Soludo made the declaration at APGA’s South-East Zonal Stakeholders’ Meeting held on April 18, 2026, describing it as the first of its kind in over two decades.

“Something significant has happened. We did not just gather to talk; we gathered to rebuild,” he said.

The governor emphasised the need for discipline and loyalty within the party, noting that tickets would no longer be handed out arbitrarily but earned through due process.

“This party will no longer be a rented platform for personal ambition. The era of the ‘gift ticket’ must end. We are building a proper movement where loyalty matters and tickets are not for sale,” he said.

In a statement today, Soludo disclosed that APGA had, in 2024, become the first political party in Nigeria to fully digitise its membership register, ensuring that all registered members have the right to vote and be voted for.

“We have also adopted Option A-4 for our primaries — open, transparent and fair to all. No more shadows,” he added.

He, however, noted that party structures must be backed by sustainable funding, announcing a return to a dues-based model to reduce dependence on external interests.

“A structure without funding is fantasy. Members must own this party through dues. A committee will soon unveil a sustainable funding framework,” he said.

Soludo also highlighted new guidelines introduced by the party’s National Chairman, Barr. Sly Ezeokenwa, including a phased process of expression of interest, screening and nomination, as well as a directive requiring party executives to remain neutral or resign before supporting any aspirant.

“These are tough rules, but serious parties make tough decisions,” he said.

The governor commended the National and State Working Committees of the party for their commitment to the reforms and urged members to prioritise the long-term survival of APGA.

“My charge is simple: commit to the party’s future. Aspire with integrity, stop holding briefs and avoid jumping platforms. Let us build a disciplined national movement anchored on transparency, equity and justice,” he said.