“Benue South cannot settle for less” — Okpokwu Ogenyi drums support for Ottah

Ottah emerged winner of the keenly contested primary after polling a total of 58,760 votes across the nine local government areas in Benue South Senatorial District.

Other aspirants recorded the following votes:

• Hon. Joseph Ojobo — 6,782 votes
• Engr. Oloche Agidani — 5,246 votes
• Hon. Daniel Onjeh — 4,570 votes
• Hon. Nelson Alapa — 4,312 votes
• Patrick Ojechema Idoko — 2,732 votes

Reacting shortly after the outcome of the exercise, Ogenyi took to social media to praise Ottah’s emergence, insisting that the former House of Representatives member remains the most qualified aspirant for the position.

According to him, the APC primary was beyond ordinary politics and represented a defining moment for the future of the Idoma and Igede people.

“To the good people of Benue South Senatorial District, Zone C, it is not just about the APC, but the destiny of the Idoma/Igede people,” he wrote.

“We must present the best among equals, a tested and trusted legislator whose reign in the lower chamber saw massive development both in human capital and infrastructure.”

The APC chieftain further stated that Benue South needed an experienced lawmaker with proven capacity in governance and representation.

He appealed to party members and supporters to rally behind Ottah ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“I appeal to you, especially members of our great party, the All Progressives Congress (APC), to support Francis Ottah Agbo. Benue South cannot settle for less,” he added.

Ottah’s victory, however, came amid rising political tension and controversy within the APC following the withdrawal of former National President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Daniel Onjeh, from the race over alleged imposition of a preferred candidate.

Onjeh had accused some influential forces within the party of attempting to manipulate the process, insisting that he could not participate in what he described as a predetermined exercise.