Former interim Publicity Secretary of the Action Peoples Party (APP) in Imo State, Cajetan Duke, announced on Friday that he will contest the Ngor‑Okpala State Constituency seat in the Imo State House of Assembly during the 2027 elections.
Speaking at an APP gathering in Nguru/Umuowa Ward 6, Duke said his candidacy will be under the APP banner. He appealed to party members for support, solidarity and prayers as he prepares to undertake a series of consultations across the constituency.
“The upcoming tour will deepen engagement with the people and provide an opportunity to listen, learn and co‑create a people‑driven legislative agenda,” Duke said. He emphasized that his ambition extends beyond merely securing a legislative seat. “My goal is to redefine representation into a dynamic, result‑oriented enterprise,” he added.
Duke highlighted his commitment to ensuring that residents of Ngor‑Okpala are not only heard but actively involved in shaping policies that affect their daily lives. He asserted that, with the backing of the APP, community goodwill and a clear vision for the future, the campaign could move beyond traditional representation to deliver lasting impact.
The announcement comes as the APP seeks to expand its presence in Imo State ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle. The party, founded in 1998, has historically focused on grassroots mobilisation and anti‑corruption platforms, but it has yet to secure a significant foothold in the state legislature.
Stakeholders in the constituency, including local leaders and civil society groups, are expected to engage with Duke’s consultation tour, which aims to gather input on pressing local issues such as infrastructure development, youth unemployment and health services.
The Imo State Independent Electoral Commission has not yet released a definitive list of candidates for the 2027 State House of Assembly elections. Duke’s declaration adds to a growing roster of aspirants from various parties seeking to contest the Ngor‑Okpala seat.
As the campaign period approaches, the APP’s performance in Imo State will be closely watched by political analysts who view the 2027 elections as a barometer for the party’s national growth trajectory. Duke’s emphasis on participatory governance may influence how other candidates frame their own platforms in the lead‑up to the polls.
