The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has condemned remarks by its former State Chairman, Comrade Austin Agada, against Governor Hyacinth Alia and two prominent members of the party, describing the comments as irresponsible, disparaging and politically divisive.
Recall that Agada, while speaking on TVC News’ Politics Tonight on Tuesday, referred to Governor Alia as an “ingrate” and described Hon. Prince Moses Ternenge, the APC leader, and Hon. Engr. Livinus Tsar, an APC point-man, as “illiterates.”
In a statement on Wednesday, the party’s Publicity Secretary, Benedict Yaweh, said the APC considers the remarks against Ternenge and Tsar particularly unacceptable.
The party said their professional backgrounds or humble beginnings cannot diminish their character, capacity or contributions to the party and society.
“Both are committed APC stakeholders who have distinguished themselves through grassroots mobilisation and service to the Party.”
The APC also rejected Agada’s allegation that Governor Alia is controlled by individuals around him.
“If he has genuine concerns about the administration, he should present facts and engage constructively rather than resort to personal attacks and derogatory remarks.
“Similarly, his claim that he sold his Abuja property to support the Governor’s 2023 campaign and was subsequently not compensated is a personal allegation that requires evidence.
“Any legitimate financial or contractual claim should be pursued through the appropriate channels instead of using a television platform to make allegations against the Governor.
“His declaration that Governor Alia has given him no reason to campaign for him in 2027 is equally his personal political position and should not be presented as an assessment of the administration.”
The party said Governor Alia and the APC leadership in Benue State are focused on strengthening the party, consolidating its structures and mobilising support across the state for the 2027 general elections.
“Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia and the APC in Benue State are busy strategising, consulting, mobilising and consolidating support for the victory of our Party’s candidates in the 2027 general elections.
“We have no time to be distracted by individuals whose current political differences have placed them outside the direction of the Party,” the APC said.
The APC called on all aggrieved members and stakeholders to bury their anger, set aside personal grievances and return to the fold to work for the collective interest of the party.
The party said it remained open to dialogue and reconciliation, urging all members to place the unity and future of the APC above individual differences.
“The task ahead is greater than any personal grievance. The Party needs every member and stakeholder as we work to build a stronger APC and secure victory for Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC candidates in 2027,” the party said.
The APC reaffirmed its commitment to internal reconciliation, responsible political engagement and the continued strengthening of its structures across Benue State.
Benue APC condemns Agada’s alleged attack on Alia, party leaders