Benue Lawmaker, Ojema who said non-APC members won’t get jobs wins Reps Primary in Apa/Agatu

The member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Ojotu Ojema, has emerged winner of the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election for the constituency ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Ojema, who previously stirred controversy after reportedly declaring that non-APC members would not get jobs under the party’s government, secured victory in the primary election conducted across the 21 council wards of the constituency on Saturday.

The federal lawmaker, who currently serves as Chairman of the House Committee on National Inland Waterways, polled 11,305 votes to defeat five other contestants in the exercise.

Announcing the results, the Collation Officer, Comrade Ajoma Success Ode, declared Ojema winner after collation of votes from the various wards.

According to the official results, Matthew Ochayi Alidu came second with 985 votes, while Hon. Danladi Ochekpe secured 934 votes to place third.

Other contestants recorded the following scores:

• Hon. Simon Omachoko — 896 votes
• Hon./Mrs. Ruth Ochefu — 872 votes
• Hon. James Abu Umoru — 608 votes

The total number of registered voters was 17,586, while 15,600 votes were cast during the exercise.

Ojema had earlier attracted criticism after a viral statement in which he allegedly suggested that employment opportunities would favour APC loyalists, a comment that generated reactions from opposition parties and residents within the constituency.

Despite the controversy, supporters of the lawmaker described his victory as a reflection of his grassroots support, legislative performance and influence within the constituency.