By Our Correspondent
National News – Fresh controversy has erupted within the All Progressives Congress in Benue State following the conduct of the National Assembly primaries, with party members accusing leaders of manipulating results and imposing candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The dispute has further widened the political divide between supporters of Governor Hyacinth Alia and allies of Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The crisis reportedly began after disagreements over automatic tickets for serving lawmakers.
While Akume’s camp claimed President Bola Tinubu supported consensus tickets for elected officials, Governor Alia rejected the claim, insisting the party leadership directed all aspirants to participate in primaries.
Tension increased after a leaked communiqué allegedly suggested automatic tickets had been approved.
Deputy Governor Sam Ode denied the report, stating the reconciliation committee never endorsed such an arrangement.
Several lawmakers believed to be loyal to Akume later lost their party tickets during the primaries, deepening suspicion among party members.
Some stakeholders alleged that election materials were diverted to private locations where results were allegedly allocated to preferred aspirants instead of votes being openly counted.
Political analyst Tony Ogah criticised the exercise, describing the process as undemocratic.
According to him, direct primaries should allow party members to freely choose candidates rather than witness alleged manipulation behind closed doors.
Party stakeholders also warned that the controversy could weaken the APC’s chances in future elections if unresolved.
Members of the Akume-backed faction reportedly submitted petitions to the party’s appeal panel, alleging widespread irregularities, hijacking of materials and non-conduct of voting in several wards.
However, APC spokesman Benedict Yawe defended the exercise, praising the peaceful atmosphere and insisting the primaries were transparent and fair.
