Fear grips Benue South APC as loyalists of Rep Philip Agbese dump party

There is growing tension within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue South following the resignation of several loyalists and aides of the lawmaker representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency, Philip Agbese.

Idoma Voice gathered that in the last 48 hours, more than ten of Agbese’s loyalists and aides, who are considered key stalwarts of the APC in the zone, have dumped the ruling party.

The development comes just weeks after the fallout from the controversial parallel state congresses in Benue State, where two factional chairmen emerged.

While Benjamin Omale emerged as chairman of the faction loyal to Governor Hyacinth Alia, Austin Agada was re-elected chairman of the faction aligned with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

Idoma Voice observed that Agbese, popularly known as Okanga, is widely regarded as a loyalist of Akume.

Among those who have resigned from the party are Agbese’s campaign Director-General in the last election, Akor Ikwuoche; one of his aides, Richard Oriri; a Benue State House of Assembly aspirant for Otukpo/Akpa State Constituency, Isaac Ikpa and several others.

In his resignation letter addressed to the chairman of Otukpo Township Ward 1, Ikpa explained that his decision was taken after careful consideration.

“My dear people, family, supporters, and associates,
I want to assure everyone that my decision to resign from the APC was taken in good faith and after careful consideration. It does not in any way affect my commitment to the 2027 race for the Benue State House of Assembly to represent Otukpo/Akpa. I remain fully in the race and even more determined to serve our people.

In the coming days, I will communicate further regarding my next political platform. I kindly urge everyone not to be deterred or discouraged by this development.

I deeply appreciate your unwavering support, encouragement, and belief in our shared vision.”

Sources within the party told Idoma Voice that the wave of resignations may signal a possible move by Agbese to eventually dump the APC.

According to party insiders, such a move could deal a significant blow to the APC in Benue South. The sources said if Agbese eventually leaves the party, he could pull more than 100,000 supporters away from the APC in the zone, a development that may significantly alter the political dynamics ahead of future elections.