The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has dismissed allegations of candidate imposition in its ongoing State Congress, describing the claims as false, misleading, and politically motivated.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the State Publicity Secretary, Valentine Onojeghuo Esq, the party refuted accusations attributed to state chairmanship aspirant, Ebiakpo Ezebri, who alleged that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori imposed a candidate in the congress process.
The party maintained that no individual had been imposed as Chairman of the Delta State APC, stressing that the allegations were deliberately designed to misinform members, create division, and undermine what it described as a transparent and constitutionally guided exercise.
“Let it be stated clearly and without ambiguity: no individual has been imposed as Chairman of the Delta State APC,” the statement read, adding that such claims cannot override the clear provisions of the party’s constitution and established democratic procedures.
The APC leadership emphasized that Governor Oborevwori, as leader of the party in the state, has consistently upheld internal democracy, party supremacy, and the rule of law. It insisted that at no time did the governor interfere with or manipulate the congress process, describing attempts to link him to the controversy as irresponsible.
Addressing concerns over the zoning of the State Chairman position to Delta South Senatorial District, the party clarified that the decision followed extensive consultations among leaders, elders, and stakeholders from the three senatorial districts. It noted that the zoning arrangement reflects the party’s commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, balance, and unity.
According to the statement, the responsibility for identifying and recommending a candidate rests with leaders and stakeholders from Delta South, whose consultations were described as thorough and independent.
“Their recommendation reflects the collective will of Delta South stakeholders, not the agenda of any individual,” the party stated.
The APC also rejected what it termed a divisive narrative suggesting discrimination between “old” and “new” members, affirming that the date of joining the party does not limit any member’s right to aspire to leadership positions.
While acknowledging the constitutional right of members to contest, the party warned against attempts to distort facts or discredit a legitimate process due to personal ambition.
It assured members that the ongoing congress is being conducted strictly in line with the APC Constitution and national guidelines, with no undue advantage given to any aspirant.
The party cautioned against the spread of misinformation and actions capable of destabilizing its structures, vowing not to allow unfounded accusations or personal grievances to derail efforts aimed at strengthening internal cohesion.
Calling on aspirants and members to demonstrate discipline, maturity, and respect for party supremacy, the Delta APC stressed that the collective interest of the party must take precedence over individual ambitions.
The statement reaffirmed the party’s commitment to protecting members’ rights and safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the APC in Delta State, concluding with the slogan: “APC Renewed Hope for M.O.R.E. Agenda.”