By Sunday Ogli, Makurdi
THE Benue All Progressives Congress, APC National Assembly Caucus has dismissed claims that there are two factions of the ruling party in the state.
They made this clarification on Sunday in a statement signed by Hon Philip Agbese, the joint spokesman of the NASS members and federal appointees from the state.
Agbese said those making such insinuations are “desperate comedians who are struggling for Mr Ibu’s role in Nollywood.”
He further said that it is only in Benue that some deluded characters who thrive in hero-worshipping individuals as demi-gods want to turn logic on its head.
The lawmakers, therefore, said the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, remains the leader of the party in Benue as far as the APC’s doctrine and philosophy are concerned.
They reckoned that as long as the party’s constitution and National Working Committee are concerned, Comrade Austin Agada is still the state chairman of APC in Benue State.
Agbese cited Borno, Ogun, Kebbi, and other states where Senator Kashim Shettima, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and Atiku Bagudu are still recognised as leaders of the party.
“Even before Shettima became the Vice President of the country, he was regarded as the leader in Borno State.
“What did he do for Zulum that Senator Akume didn’t do to make Rev (Fr) Hyacinth Alia the Governor of our state?” the statement queried.
Agbese also wondered why Governor Alia who has barely spent one year in office wants to be equated with a man who has been governor for eight years, Senator for 12 years, Minister for four years and currently the SGF.
“We are true party men and doing things the unique way in line with the party’s doctrine of command, and that’s why members of the National Assembly Caucus are highly respected in our constituencies.
“We have not told anyone in our domains that we are the leaders of the party. For example, how do I address myself as the leader of the party in my federal constituency with Senator Ameh Ebute, Chief Audu Ogbeh, and Chief John Ochoga all from my place?” Agbese asked.
He, however, admonished the true APC members to see those parading themselves as the new leaders of the party as mere comedians who are just entertaining the Benue public.
