By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The leadership of All Progressives Grand Alliance, APGA in Benue State has called for immediate reconciliation of the controversial Local Government election held in the state on October 5, 2024.
Benue State Chairman of APGA, Comrade Joseph Ogli who made the call in a statement also denounced the 100 percent victory claimed by the APC, calling it "a shame and embarrassment".
He criticized the BSIEC for alleged irregularities, including candidates being forced to pay large sums of money.
The party encourages its members to participate in future elections, but expressed disappointment in the recent outcome.
Comrade Ogli believed that the Governor, being a clergyman, should have ensured a fair electoral process.
The party vowed to challenge the results in court and urges supporters to remain calm.
The only Chairmanship Candidate of APGA in Agatu Local Government, Rev Mrs. Azumi Elaigwu, also condemned the lack of transparency in the electoral process and vows to uphold democratic principles.
"The traditional process in Nigeria for Local Government elections has been disrupted in Benue State by Reverend Father Alia. He promised a credible election and invited all political parties to participate".
She insisted that the Council election in Agatu LGA highlighted issues such as ballot box shortages, ballot box snatching by thugs, and a premature winner announcement in a closed-door meeting with only a fraction of the results tallied.
Rev Mrs. Azumi Elaigwu, described attempts to manipulate the election, including being denied entry to a closed-door meeting where the APC candidate was declared winner of the election.
She questioned the validity of the election promised by the Governor and called for its cancellation due to blatant electoral process violations.
Other candidates like Justina Ali and observers like Hamidu Aminu and Baba Akubo also raised concerns about irregularities and the premature announcement of results.
They called for intervention to address the electoral fraud in Agatu LGA.
