The All Progressives Congress in Rivers State has raised concerns about the newly appointed chairman of the party’s caretaker committee, Chief Tony Okocha, claiming that he is not a registered member of the APC.

According to Daily Post, Dalington Nwauju, the party’s Publicity Secretary in the state, made the allegation during an appearance on Channels TV’s program on Saturday. His comments came amidst the ongoing leadership crisis within the Rivers APC.

Recall that Wuzup Nigeria reports that the National Working Committee of the ruling APC had inaugurated members of the caretaker committee for the Rivers chapter on Friday. 

Chief Okocha was named chairman, while Eric Nwibani was appointed Secretary of the seven-member committee.

During the interview, Nwauju questioned Okocha’s eligibility for the position, stating that he had actively worked against the APC in Rivers State during the last election.

“As I speak to you, the number one person on the caretaker committee list is not a member of the APC. Tony Okocha left the party and joined forces with Magnus Abe against the party,” Nwauju asserted.

“Everybody in Rivers State is aware that the man never campaigned for any of the APC candidates in Rivers State. So how can a man who worked against the APC now turn around to lead the APC?“

Nwauju emphasized that his concern was not with Okocha personally but with the legality of the NWC’s decision. He questioned the rationale behind appointing someone who had actively opposed the party to a leadership position.

National Chairman of the APC, Abdullahi Ganduje, had previously urged the caretaker committee to take charge of the party in Rivers State and prepare for the 2027 general elections. 

However, Nwauju’s allegation has cast doubt on the legitimacy of the committee and its ability to effectively lead the party in the state.