The All Progressives Congress, APC, has expressed surprise over the Wednesday defection of the Governor of Benue State, Samuel Ortom.
It, however, said it was not too late to embark on reconciliation to bring him and others back.
The position of the APC was made known in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.
“Even with this development, we don’t think it is too late for reconciliation. We have to continue to talk. As long as people keep their minds open and have the courage to put the real issues on the table, reconciliation is still possible,” he said.
He said the party was amazed at the eventual decision of the governor to defect despite giving assurance that he would remain in APC.
Ortom’s initial assurance, he said, followed efforts by APC National Chairman, Adams Oshiomhole, to settle the rift within the party at the local level in Benue State.
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Abdullahi stated: “The party recalls efforts made by the National Chairman, Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, to address some of the grievances raised by the Benue State governor pertaining to the local politics in Benue state.
“The governor had left the meeting saying he was satisfied with the assurances given by party leaders. We are still working on giving effect to the resolutions from the meeting. Therefore, we are somewhat surprised by Governor Ortom’s decision.
“The party reiterates its earlier position that it respects the rights of every citizen to choose their political affiliation but expresses hopes that those who have left the party will rescind their decisions.
“Even with this development, we don’t think it is too late for reconciliation. We have to continue to talk. As long as people keep their minds open and have the courage to put the real issues on the table, reconciliation is still possible.
“We, once again, call on members across the country to remain calm as the party leadership continues to work hard to position the party strongly for the next general elections.”
