APC upholds Benjamin Omale as Benue State Chairman

By Tolu Temidire

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has reaffirmed Chief Benjamin Omale as the Chairman of the party in Benue State, as leaders and stakeholders concluded a reconciliation meeting in Makurdi aimed at strengthening unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, the APC National Vice Chairman for the North-Central zone, Alhaji Mu’azu Rijau, said the party had successfully resolved internal disagreements and returned to a united front.

“From 2022 and 2023 when we took over power, we have remained one family, and today we are all back to the fold as a united family,” Rijau said.

He also clarified the party’s position on the mode of primaries, dismissing suggestions of automatic tickets for lawmakers. According to him, the party would follow due process as stipulated in its guidelines and the Electoral Act.

“Based on party directives and the provisions of the Electoral Act, the mode of primaries should either be consensus or direct. Initially, we opted for direct primaries in Benue State, and that remains the decision,” he stated.

In his speech, Omale described the reconciliation meeting as timely and crucial for the future of the party, expressing appreciation to party faithful for the confidence reposed in him.

“I want to thank the Almighty God for making this peace and reconciliation meeting possible, as it will help chart a way forward for our party, especially as we prepare for the 2027 general elections,” he said.

He further thanked delegates from across the 23 local government areas for electing him and members of the State Executive Committee.

“We are indeed grateful to the people of Benue State for this opportunity to serve. Our emergence followed the due process of ward, local government, zonal congresses and the national convention, which is the highest decision-making organ of the party,” Omale noted.

The APC chairman also commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for facilitating the reconciliation effort, describing it as a demonstration of his commitment to the state.

“This singular act shows how much the President values Benue State and its people. We assure him of our total loyalty and commitment at all times. Benue is fully in support of him,” Omale said.

He equally praised Governor Hyacinth Alia for his leadership and support for party unity. “I wish to specially appreciate the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for his unwavering support, commitment to unity, and the leadership that continues to strengthen the party across the state,” he added.

Omale said the governor’s efforts in aligning with the President’s vision and providing an enabling environment for the reconciliation meeting were commendable, noting that they have contributed to repositioning the party for future success.