Comrade Daniel Onjeh, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), has officially withdrawn from the Benue South APC Senatorial Primary ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a video statement released on Monday, Onjeh cited the “undemocratic conduct” of the primary process as the main reason for his decision, describing it as a painful but necessary step. He emphasized that despite his long-standing commitment to the party, he felt his contributions had been overlooked and taken for granted.
Onjeh, who positions himself as one of the founding members of the APC in Benue South, recalled his active role in building the party from its early days. He highlighted his efforts in mobilizing members across communities, engaging with okada riders, farmers, and ordinary citizens, and even funding party registration activities during the transition from the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN) to the APC. “I moved from one community to another, speaking to okada riders, farmers, and ordinary people. I went about evangelizing the party like a Jehovah’s Witness. That was how we built the APC in Benue South,” he stated passionately.
Despite facing conspiracies and machinations in the past, Onjeh remained loyal to the APC, driven by his dedication to its growth and development. However, he expressed deep disappointment, saying his sacrifices seemed to have been disregarded. “Despite the conspiracies and machinations against me in the past, I remained in the party because of my commitment to its growth and development. Unfortunately, it appears that all these sacrifices have been taken for granted,” he lamented.
The APC chieftain made it clear that while he continues to consult on his next political move, he will no longer participate in the Benue South senatorial primary. “I humbly wish to announce my withdrawal from the Benue South Senatorial Primary due to the undemocratic conduct of the process,” he declared in the video. His exit marks a significant development in the party’s internal dynamics ahead of the 2027 elections, especially in a zone where his influence has been historically strong.
Onjeh’s withdrawal underscores growing concerns over party democracy and fairness in candidate selection processes within the APC. His departure may influence voter sentiment and party unity in Benue South, as he remains a respected figure with a broad grassroots base. As the political landscape continues to evolve, his next steps will be closely watched by party members and political observers alike.
Leave a Comment