ADC guber aspirant, Raymond Edoh rejects alleged zoning ahead of 2027 Benue poll

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Benue State, Dr Raymond Edoh, has rejected the alleged zoning and endorsement of a candidate ahead of the 2027 governorship election, describing the move as unconstitutional and contrary to democratic principles.

Edoh, through his Media Director, Emmanuel Daudu, spoke on Saturday in Benue State, where he called on the party leadership to ensure a level playing field for all aspirants seeking the ADC governorship ticket.

The ADC chieftain questioned the legitimacy of a reported seven-member committee allegedly involved in the zoning exercise and endorsement of a candidate, insisting that the party had yet to commence its nomination process.

He demanded clarification from the party leadership regarding the legality of the committee, its terms of reference, and the authority backing its actions.

Edoh also queried whether the committee was constituted as a zoning, screening, or selection panel, as well as the criteria used in identifying those allegedly involved in the process.

He stressed the need for strict adherence to the ADC constitution, democratic principles, and political ethics in order to preserve unity within the party ahead of the 2027 polls.

According to him, Benue politics, particularly within the Tiv political structure, has over the years operated a rotational arrangement for political offices, noting that the current understanding involving the Vandeikya Federal Constituency was still midway through its expected tenure.

Edoh warned that any attempt to alter the arrangement without broad consultation could create tension and weaken party cohesion.

He also opposed the idea of zonal primaries, insisting that all aspirants should be allowed to contest freely in an open and transparent process.

“Democracy thrives on openness, fairness, due process and healthy competition,” he stated.

The governorship aspirant urged the national and state leadership of the ADC to distance themselves from the alleged zoning arrangement and ensure that all decisions concerning the governorship ticket comply with democratic procedures and the party constitution.

He further appealed to party leaders to resolve internal disputes amicably to avoid factional divisions within the party.

“The future of Benue State must be anchored on fairness, competence, inclusiveness and sincerity of purpose — not narrow political calculations,” he added