ABUJA — A concerned stakeholder of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta North Senatorial District has called on the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) to exercise caution in the selection of its candidate for future electoral contests in the district, citing reports of an ongoing investigation involving a prospective aspirant.
In an open appeal addressed to the APC National Chairman and members of the NWC, the stakeholder referenced media reports alleging that a prospective Delta North senatorial aspirant is currently under investigation by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over the alleged diversion of N1.3 trillion in 13 per cent derivation funds between 2015 and 2023.
According to the appeal, the stakeholder expressed concern that handing the party’s ticket to any aspirant facing an active anti-corruption investigation could pose significant political challenges for the APC in Delta North.
The stakeholder argued that opposition parties could use the development as a major campaign issue, potentially shifting public discourse away from the party’s agenda and governance plans for the Anioma people.
The appeal further warned of possible legal and electoral complications should formal charges or court proceedings arise during an election cycle, noting that such circumstances could affect the party’s electoral prospects.
Emphasizing the APC’s anti-corruption credentials, the stakeholder urged the party leadership to maintain high standards in its screening process and ensure that only aspirants with what was described as “unimpeachable integrity” are considered for nomination.
“The NWC must act now to protect Delta North. Enforce internal screening. Insist on candidates with clean records and allow due process to take its course,” the stakeholder stated.
The appeal concluded with a call on the APC leadership to prioritize the party’s reputation and electoral viability in Delta North, stressing the need for credible representation and effective leadership for the district.
Neither the APC leadership nor the individual referenced in the appeal had publicly responded to the concerns at the time of filing this report.