A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Prince Paul Ikonne, has called for a generational shift in representation for Abia South Senatorial District, urging the incumbent senator, Enyinnaya Abaribe, to step aside ahead of the 2027 general elections.


Ikonne made the call during an interview with ABN TV shortly after his official declaration to contest the Senate seat at the Enyimba Town Hall in Aba, where supporters and people of Abia South also endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term.

While acknowledging Abaribe’s years of service, Ikonne maintained that the time had come for new leadership to emerge in the district.

“Our elder brother has done his best. The people are now saying it is time to move forward and allow a new voice represent Abia South,” he said.

The former Executive Secretary of the National Agricultural Land Development Authority also criticized the senator’s recent political movements, describing frequent party defections as a sign of inconsistency that could weaken political structures and erode public trust.

“Jumping from one party to another will not save you. If you are familiar with Senator Abaribe, you will realize that he has lost touch with the grassroots. Our people are saying enough is enough; it is time for him to return home,” Ikonne stated.

He warned that a fresh bid by Abaribe in 2027 may not yield a favourable outcome, insisting that the electorate is increasingly inclined towards change.