Tensions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) have escalated as the party recently concluded the election of new officials.
The election was held, to fill vital positions within the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) and zonal leadership.
In a press briefing held at the APC National Secretariat, National Secretary Ajibola Basiru unveiled the results of the NWC meeting and the selection of these new officeholders.
Ali Bukar Dalori from Borno State will now assume the role of Deputy National Chairman, North (North East Zone), succeeding the outgoing Minister of Agriculture, Abubakar Kyari.
Meanwhile, Garba Datti Muhammad of Kaduna State steps in as the National Vice Chairman, North West (North West), succeeding Salihu Moh Lukman.
The vacant position of National Legal Adviser was bestowed upon Abdul Karim Abubakar Kana of Nasarawa State, representing the North Central Zone, filling the void left by his predecessor’s resignation.
Donatus Nwankpa, hailing from Abia State, assumes the mantle of National Welfare Secretary (South East Zone), following the unfortunate passing of Friday Nwosu.
Furthermore, Mary Alile Idele from Edo State has emerged as the new National Women Leader (South-South).
Duro Meseko, a Kogi State native, is set to take on the role of Deputy National Publicity Secretary (North Central Zone), replacing Yakubu Ajaka, while Ikani Shuaibu Okolo, also from Kogi State, will serve as the Zonal Organizing Secretary (North Central).
However, the announcement of these elected officials from Abia, Kogi, and Cross River States has triggered internal discord within the party.
Reportedly, prominent party figures such as the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Beta Edu, who had earlier recommended Dr. Stella Odey-Ekpo, allegedly saw their preferred candidate lose to Adams Oshiomhole’s choice.
Similarly, in the race for Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Governor Yahaya Bello’s candidate was defeated by James Faleke’s contender.
In Abia State, it is alleged that the candidates endorsed by Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, and State Chairman Ikechi Emenike were both outpaced by Governor Hope Uzodimma’s favoured candidate.
This contentious outcome prompted former Women Leader Edu to stage a protest at the national secretariat around 6:20 pm on Wednesday, objecting to the exclusion of her candidate, who had practically assumed office.