The Abia State Director of the City Boy Movement, Lucky Igbokwe, has urged the All Progressives Congress (APC) to create opportunities for young aspirants in the lead-up to the 2027 general elections.
Igbokwe made the appeal on Monday during a visit to the APC state secretariat on Azikiwe Road in Umuahia, where he formally declared his intention to contest the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency seat.
Addressing party leaders, he called for support for younger politicians who have yet to hold elective office, arguing that introducing new faces could strengthen the party’s chances at the polls.
“Youths who have never held political office should be given a chance in the forthcoming party primary election. My ambition is not driven by mere political desire, but by a long-standing commitment to youth empowerment and party growth,” he said.
Igbokwe pointed to his grassroots influence, noting that the City Boy Movement under his leadership mobilised over 60,000 youths in support of President Bola Tinubu, positioning him as a candidate with established political reach.
He also referenced his previous political experience, recalling his performance in the 2023 PDP governorship primaries, where he finished second, and said the experience had strengthened his resolve for the 2027 race.
“No dream is too big. A dream only remains big when you are sleeping; it becomes achievable when you work towards it,” he declared.
Beyond politics, Igbokwe highlighted his contributions to employment and media development in the state, citing his ownership of Don FM and Ikoro FM as platforms that have created jobs and amplified APC activities.
In response, the Abia APC Chairman, Chijioke Chukwu, commended Igbokwe’s efforts and acknowledged his commitment to the party’s growth.
He noted that the Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency remains a key target for the party in 2027, adding that effective representation requires more than strong speeches in parliament.
“No matter how well you speak in the chamber, if your people do not feel your impact, then you have not done well,” he said.
Chukwu advised the aspirant to intensify grassroots engagement, noting that the decision on party candidates now largely rests with ward and local government structures.
He also expressed confidence that securing the party’s ticket would position Igbokwe strongly for victory in the general election.
The Ikwuano/Umuahia Federal Constituency, which Igbokwe seeks to represent, covers Ikwuano as well as Umuahia North and South local government areas.
The seat is currently held by a lawmaker from another political party, making it one of the constituencies the APC considers winnable in the next election cycle.