The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has strongly rejected allegations of candidate imposition in its ongoing state congress, describing the claims as “false, misleading, and politically motivated.”
In a statement issued by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo, the Delta APC dismissed accusations by chairmanship aspirant Ebiakpo Ezebri, who alleged that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori imposed a preferred candidate for the state chairmanship position.
The party stated unequivocally that no individual had been imposed as chairman, emphasizing that the congress process remains transparent and guided by constitutional provisions.
“Let it be stated clearly and without ambiguity: no individual has been imposed as Chairman of the Delta State APC. These allegations are false, misleading, and appear deliberately crafted to misinform party members and undermine the credibility of a transparent and constitutionally guided process,” the statement read.
According to the APC, the claims were designed to sow division within party ranks and distract from a process anchored on due process and democratic principles.
The party defended Governor Oborevwori, describing attempts to link him to the alleged imposition as irresponsible and unfounded.
“At no time has he interfered with, manipulated, or subverted the congress process. Any attempt to drag his name into unfounded controversies is both irresponsible and unacceptable,” the statement added.
The APC stressed that the governor has consistently demonstrated respect for internal democracy, party supremacy, and the rule of law.
Addressing concerns over the zoning of the state chairmanship position to Delta South Senatorial District, the party clarified that the decision emerged from broad consultations among stakeholders across the three senatorial districts.
“The zoning of the State Chairman position to Delta South Senatorial District was not the decision of any single individual. It was the outcome of broad-based consultations involving party leaders, elders, and stakeholders,” the party explained.
The APC further noted that leaders from Delta South were solely responsible for identifying and recommending a candidate, stressing that their decision reflected the collective will of stakeholders in the district.
The party rejected narratives suggesting discrimination between old and new members, affirming that all qualified members retain the constitutional right to aspire to leadership positions.
“Every qualified member has the constitutional right to aspire to leadership. However, no aspirant has the right to distort facts or attempt to discredit a legitimate and transparent process simply because outcomes may not align with personal ambition,” the statement noted.
The Delta APC cautioned against misinformation and actions capable of destabilizing the party, urging aspirants and members to demonstrate discipline and maturity.
“The APC is bigger than any individual ambition, and our collective interest must remain paramount,” the party stated.
Reaffirming its commitment to fairness and justice, the party expressed confidence that the congress outcome would reflect the will of stakeholders and further strengthen its internal structures.
The statement concluded with an assurance that the Delta APC remains united and committed to safeguarding the integrity of its democratic processes.
