Veteran Igbo politician and founder of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Chief Chekwas Okorie, has formally announced his retirement from partisan politics.
Okorie, who also convened the Igbo Agenda Dialogue 2025, made the declaration during an appearance on the Beyond the Headlines programme, aired on Freedom Square TV and hosted by Uchenna Cyril Anioke.
Speaking on the show, the political elder statesman cited deep personal reflection and the changing political climate in Nigeria as key reasons for his decision.
He emphasized that while he is stepping away from active political party involvement, he remains committed to national discourse, political advocacy, and championing equity for the Igbo people.
“My part in partisanship is over. I have voluntarily withdrawn so I can fully embrace the new roles God has destined for me in this phase of my life,” Okorie said.
He clarified that his exit should not be interpreted as political silence, but rather as a strategic shift toward becoming a non-partisan voice for justice, unity, and restructuring in Nigeria.
As a consistent figure in Nigeria’s democratic journey since 1999, Okorie has played key roles in shaping the political landscape, especially in promoting the interests of the South-East.
His work in founding APGA and his involvement in other political platforms have left a lasting legacy.
Now repositioning himself as an elder statesman, Okorie called on younger Nigerians especially from the South-East to take initiative and lead with unity, courage and vision.
“Political power won’t come through lamentation. It requires action, strategy and unity of purpose,” he warned.
