The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Delta State has rejected 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 dismissed accusations reportedly made by state chairmanship aspirant, Ebiakpo Ezebri, who alleged that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori imposed a candidate in the congress process.
The party stated unequivocally that no individual had been imposed as Chairman of the Delta State APC, insisting that the allegations were deliberately aimed at misinforming members, creating division, and undermining 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. “These allegations are unfounded and cannot substitute for the clear provisions of the APC 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 maintained that at no time had the governor interfered with or manipulated the congress process, describing attempts to link his name to the controversy as irresponsible and unacceptable.
Addressing concerns about the zoning of the State Chairman position to Delta South Senatorial District, the party clarified that the decision was not made unilaterally. According to the statement, the move followed extensive consultations involving party leaders, elders, and stakeholders from the three senatorial districts.
The party said the zoning arrangement reflects its commitment to fairness, inclusiveness, balance, and unity. It further explained that the responsibility for identifying and recommending a candidate rests solely with leaders and stakeholders from Delta South, whose consultations it described as thorough and independent.
“Their recommendation reflects the collective will of Delta South stakeholders, not the agenda of any individual,” the statement added.
The APC also rejected what it termed a divisive narrative suggesting discrimination between “old” and “new” members, stressing that the timing of a member’s entry into the party does not diminish their constitutional right to aspire to leadership positions.
While acknowledging the right of members to contest elective positions within the party, the APC cautioned against attempts to distort facts or discredit what it called a legitimate process due to personal ambition.
The statement assured members that the ongoing congress is being conducted strictly in line with the party’s constitution and national guidelines, with no undue advantage given to any aspirant.
The party further warned against the spread of misinformation and actions capable of destabilizing its structures, vowing not to allow unfounded accusations or personal grievances to derail efforts to strengthen internal cohesion.
Calling on aspirants and members to demonstrate discipline, maturity, and respect for party supremacy, the Delta APC stressed that collective interest must outweigh individual ambition.
Expressing confidence in the process, the party said the outcome of the congress would reflect the will of stakeholders and reinforce its reputation as a platform anchored on democracy, fairness, and justice.
The statement concluded with a reaffirmation of the APC’s commitment to protecting members’ rights and safeguarding the integrity and credibility of the party in Delta State, adding: “APC Renewed Hope for M.O.R.E. Agenda.”
