The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has responded to former state chairman of the party, Comrade Austin Agada, over his recent remarks against Governor Hyacinth Alia and two party leaders.
The party described Agada’s comments as irresponsible, disparaging and capable of creating division within the party.
Agada had, during an appearance on TVC News’ Politics Tonight on Tuesday, criticised Governor Alia, describing him as an “ingrate”. He also referred to Hon. Prince Moses Ternenge, an APC leader, and Hon. Engr. Livinus Tsar, a party stakeholder, as “illiterates”.
Reacting in a statement on Wednesday, the APC Publicity Secretary in Benue State, Benedict Yaweh, said the party considered the remarks against Ternenge and Tsar unacceptable.
Yaweh said the two party leaders had contributed significantly to the growth of the APC in the state, adding that their backgrounds or professional journeys did not diminish their value or contributions.
The party also rejected Agada’s claim that Governor Alia was being controlled by individuals around him, urging him to present facts if he had concerns about the administration.
According to the APC, Agada’s allegation that he sold his Abuja property to support Alia’s 2023 governorship campaign and was not compensated remained a personal claim that should be addressed through appropriate channels.
The party also dismissed Agada’s statement that he had no reason to campaign for Governor Alia in the 2027 election, describing it as his personal political position.
The APC said Governor Alia and the party leadership were focused on strengthening the party’s structures and preparing for 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 statement said.
The party, however, called on aggrieved members and stakeholders to return to the fold, stressing that reconciliation remained possible in the interest of the party’s unity.
