Tension trailed the ward and local government congresses of the APC in Delta State as differing accounts emerged over how the exercise was conducted.
The committee assigned to supervise the process in Delta commended members for what it described as a calm and well-organised exercise across the state. According to the committee, the congresses were carried out smoothly, without major disruptions.
However, not all party members shared this view. Some stakeholders alleged that the process was skewed and failed to reflect internal democracy. The Delta North APC Coalition for Equity raised concerns over what it termed the sidelining of long-standing party loyalists.
Speaking on behalf of the group, the foundational chairman, Chief Alex Ikpeazu, alongside the acting Secretary-General, Ken-Chad Rafua, and other leaders of the old APC structure across the zone, alleged that they were shut out of key internal processes. They claimed exclusion from activities such as the preparation and harmonisation of consensus lists for ward and local government executives.
Responding to the allegations, the Delta State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Valentine Onojeghuo, dismissed claims of irregularities. He maintained that the congresses were conducted in line with the party’s constitution and established guidelines, insisting that due process was strictly followed throughout the exercise.