The All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) yesterday at its Special National Convention in Awka, Anambra State capital, amended several portions of the party’s constitution, paving the way, among other things, for incumbent officers of the party to have their tenures extended but not exceeding120 days.

The main beneficiary of the tenure elongation would be Chief Victor Umeh, who has been severally sued by aggrieved members for having allegedly over-staying his tenure as national Chairman. Umeh is holding on to the position despite having emerged unopposed as the party’s candidate for Anambra Central Senatorial District.

The party also used the occasion to obliterate the name of its founder and pioneer National Chairman, Chief Chekwas Okorie, from its constitution, describing the inclusion as undemocratic and dictatorial.

APGA ratified and approved the position of Leader and Board of Trustees Chairman, currently being occupied by Anambra State Governor, Chief Willie Obiano.

The convention did not, however, go without a drama, as Bianca, widow of its erstwhile National Leader, Dim Chukwuwemeka Odumegwu-Ojukwu, vehemently and openly opposed the attempt by the extension of the tenure of current leaders of the party by 120 days starting from February 10, 2015.

The Nigerian Ambassador to Spain stood up to voice her disagreement, saying it was illegal and unconstitutional for the serving officers of the party to amend the constitution to extend their stay in office. She argued that their continued stay at the helm of affairs of the party would be unjust. Bianca said it should be on record that she not only stood against the injustice but also moved against it.

Another highlight of the convention was the formal adoption of President Goodluck Jonathan as the Presidential Candidate of APGA in 2015.

Addressing the delegates, Governor Obiano and Chief Umeh in their separate speeches reassured members of the party of their commitment and resolve to take it to greater heights.

Another highlight was the handing over of the APGA flag to the party’s gubernatorial candidates for next year’s general polls, notably Alex Oti for Abia; Emmanuel Iheanacho for Imo; Tony Agbo, Ebonyi; and Sanni Shinkafi for Nassarawa.

•Photo shows Governor Obiano speaking during the APGA Special National Convention . . . yesterday in Awka.

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