The All Progressives Congress (APC) has reacted to the defection of the Benue State Governor, Mr. Samuel Ioraer Ortom from the Party, describing it as “somewhat surprising.”
The APC’s reaction was contained in a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, copy of which was sent to The DEFENDER.
According to the statement, Governor Ortom’s defection, after he had expressed his satisfaction with the assurances of the Party leadership while addressing the issues he raised about Benue State local politics, was surprising but hoped those who had left would reconsider their decisions and return.
The APC spoke just as Mr. Wale Ogun, a Lagos based economist, told this media organisation that he was confident the leadership of the Party I’d capable of handling the situation.
Mallam Abdullahi, also a former Minister of sports and Youth Development, said, “The Party recalls efforts made by the National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole to address some of the grievances raised by the Benue State Governor pertaining to the local politics in Benue State.
“The Governor had left the meeting saying he was satisfied with the assurances given by Party leaders. We are still working on giving effect to the resolutions from the meeting. Therefore, we are somewhat surprised by Governor Ortom’s decision.
“The Party reiterates its earlier position that it respects the rights of every citizen to chose their political affiliation but expresses hope that those who have left the Party will rescind their decisions.
“Even with this development, we don’t think it is too late for reconciliation. We have to continue to talk. As long as people keep their minds open and have the courage to put the real issues on the table, reconciliation is still possible.
“We once again call on members across the country to remain calm as the Party leadership continues to work hard to position the Party strongly for the next general elections.”
