APC Dismisses NDC Criticism, Says Focus Remains On Governance, Development In Benue
The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has dismissed recent criticisms by the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), describing the opposition group's allegations as baseless and an attempt to gain political relevance.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by the APC State Publicity Secretary, Benedict Yawe, the ruling party said it would not be drawn into what it described as unnecessary exchanges with a political group that lacks significant political structure, electoral presence, and grassroots credibility in the state.
The APC maintained that it remains the most organised and established political party in Benue State, with functional structures across polling units, wards, and local government areas. According to the party, its legitimacy is rooted in years of grassroots engagement, electoral participation, and public trust.
The statement accused the NDC of attempting to gain attention through unfounded allegations and political sensationalism rather than contributing meaningfully to democratic discourse and governance.
Responding to concerns raised about the conduct of its primary elections, the APC stated that the exercise was conducted through direct primaries in full compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act 2022, and the party's constitution and guidelines.
The party further noted that the primaries were monitored by the Independent National Electoral Commission and relevant security agencies, insisting that the process was lawful, transparent, and widely observed.
According to the APC, allegations of irregularities are unsupported by verifiable evidence and therefore hold no merit. The party stressed that direct primaries remain a legally recognised method for candidate emergence under Nigerian electoral laws and reflect the democratic choices of registered party members.
The APC also cautioned against what it described as attempts by political groups to misinform the public about established democratic procedures, stating that structured political organisations must be allowed to operate within the framework of the law.
On governance, the party reaffirmed its support for the administration of Hyacinth Iormem Alia, stating that the government remains focused on delivering infrastructure, improving public services, and strengthening institutions across the state.
The APC highlighted ongoing projects in road construction, healthcare revitalisation, education reform, and public sector efficiency as evidence of the administration's commitment to development and effective governance.
It added that the party would not be distracted by what it termed politically insignificant commentary or attempts to manufacture controversy, emphasizing that its primary focus remains service delivery and the welfare of the people of Benue State.
The party advised the NDC to concentrate on building credible political structures and engaging constructively in the democratic process if it hopes to make meaningful contributions to public discourse.
According to the APC, the people of Benue remain the ultimate judges of political performance and are capable of distinguishing between leaders focused on governance and those seeking relevance through media statements.
The party reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Governor Alia's administration in consolidating development gains and advancing sustainable progress across the state.
