Governor Hyacinth Iormen Alia of Benue State has called for the resignation of Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Ganduje, as the national Chairman and all National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC)
This decision follows a recent closed-door meeting between Governor Alia and a select group of his associates, including Barnabas Gemade, Emmanuel Jime and Daniel Onjeh.
The governor’s call for Ganduje’s resignation stems from the receipt of a letter addressed to him by the National Secretary, acting on behalf of the National Working Committee of the APC where he as instructed to ensure the withdrawal of all litigations against the party from court.
This letter likely served as the catalyst for Governor Alia’s shocking action.
Recall that Governor Alia’s anger with the current leadership of the APC in Benue State has been brewing for some time.
Earlier, citing a lack of confidence in the congressional elected leadership of the party in the state led by Comrade Austin Agada, Governor Alia took the controversial and strange step of appointing Benjamin Omakolo as the acting Chairman.
Governor Alia’s efforts to legitimize his appointed leadership faced resistance, particularly after a reported meeting with the National Chairman, Alhaji Abdullahi Umar Ganduje.
The National Chairman made it clear that the party’s structure in Benue State, elected by congress, would remain untouched.
This directive seemingly conflicted with Governor Alia’s aspirations, prompting further tensions within the party.
In response to pressure from the National Working Committee, Governor Alia and his allies made a defiant declaration to disobey the committee’s directives.
They accused the committee of siding with injustice in Benue State, leading to a loss of confidence in Ganduje’s leadership.
Governor Alia demanded that Ganduje retract his directive or resign within seven days, citing constitutional provisions, though chapters not stated.
The Governor emphasized that their legal battles would not be withdrawn, particularly as his government prepares to conduct local government elections.
