Confusion Reigns as SKC Ogbonnia Shakes Up APC, ADC in Enugu

Dr. SKC Ogbonnia, a vocal critic of President Bola Tinubu and former Presidential Aspirant in the All Progressives Congress (APC), has been making headlines with his recent defection to the Africa Democratic Congress (ADC) in his ward at Ugbo, Awgu Local Government Area of Enugu State.

Ogbonnia's grand entrance into the ADC, where he declared President Tinubu an existential threat, has garnered significant attention, prompting the ruling party to launch a state mega registration exercise in his hometown of Ugbo, attended by prominent Enugu APC members.

The elaborate declaration, being the first major move within the ADC since Peter Obi launched membership in the state, has sparked curiosity about Ogbonnia's intentions, particularly given his rare involvement in local or state politics.

As a former union leader at the NNPC, distinguished adjunct professor, and author with a PhD in leadership, Ogbonnia also chairs First Texas Energy Corporation, a multinational oil and gas company with operations in America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, showcasing his impressive credentials.

Ogbonnia's reputation as a maverick politician, dogged anti-corruption activist, and philanthropist with a profound commitment to the greater good has earned him influence across regions and tribes, making his involvement in Enugu State politics exciting and closely watched.

His decision to abandon a lucrative contract worth billions of dollars to campaign for Muhammadu Buhari and the APC in 2013, leading to the party's victory in 2015, demonstrates his dedication to his principles, and his subsequent criticism of President Buhari's governance has been notable.

Ogbonnia's history of independence is evident in his choice to maintain his distance from the party despite being offered appointments, and his decision to run against President Buhari in the 2019 elections, although unsuccessful, marked a significant turning point in his political career.

By the 2023 electoral cycle, Ogbonnia became a prominent APC figure to endorse Peter Obi of the Labour Party, describing Obi as the man whose time has come, and urging President Buhari to support him, further solidifying his reputation as a bold and unconventional politician.

Since joining the ADC, Ogbonnia has remained silent on his choice of presidential candidate, fueling speculation about his potential plans, including a possible second presidential run, although critics argue that an Igbo candidate at this stage could be seen as a spoiler.

Ogbonnia's recent letter to President Trump, accusing Tinubu of complicity in the attack on Peter Obi in Benin City, may be viewed as a demonstration of loyalty to Obi, or potentially, a maneuver for a different political aspiration, such as a gubernatorial or senatorial bid.

While there appears to be an unwritten agreement on zoning for the governorship in Enugu State, Ogbonnia's history suggests he may not adhere to such conventions, and close allies believe he should leverage his experience and connections to make a significant impact in the state.

Ogbonnia's residence in Enugu has become a hub for his admirers since his return from the United States, and those close to him seem to be ruling out a senate seat, insisting that he should aim for a more substantial role, given his capacity and the fact that his cultural zone of Greater Awgu has yet to produce a governor.

Comrade Donatus Okolie-Uwa, the immediate past SUG President of ESUT, praises Ogbonnia as a "doer" and "action man" whose presence would be felt on the ground in Enugu, particularly at the state level, citing his contributions to the party registration in Awgu LGA and his ward.

Dr. Ogbonnia's background and name recognition across Nigerian politics make him a formidable figure, and his potential to succeed in a senatorial or gubernatorial bid is significant, although the challenge of defeating an incumbent will be substantial.

The people in his former party, the APC, and his new party, the ADC, are closely watching Ogbonnia's moves, aware that his involvement can significantly impact the political landscape in Enugu State.