The Senator representing Benue North-East Senatorial District, Emmanuel Memga Udende, has alleged that the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary election in the zone was marred by vote manipulation, even as he expressed appreciation to his supporters for their turnout and loyalty during the exercise.
In a statement issued through his Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Jerry Iorngaem, and made available to journalists in Makurdi on Tuesday, Udende claimed that although he was officially declared the loser of the primary, he remained optimistic that the matter would eventually be resolved in his favour.
According to him, votes cast during the primaries were allegedly manipulated at some local government secretariats, VIP guest houses, and private residences across the senatorial district. He maintained that such actions undermined the democratic process.
Despite the allegations, the senator thanked his supporters who turned out in large numbers across the 84 council wards to participate in the exercise, describing their conduct as a demonstration of commitment to democracy and confidence in his leadership.
“The people demonstrated commitment to democracy by standing for truth and voting according to their conscience,” the statement read, quoting his media aide.
Udende, who also chairs the Senate Committee on Anti-Corruption and Financial Crimes, further stated that while his supporters remained at designated ward collation centres, some individuals allegedly moved to manipulate results elsewhere.
He added that the overwhelming support he received reflected the trust his constituents have in his representation at the National Assembly, expressing confidence that the outcome would ultimately be revisited, citing hope anchored on faith and divine purpose.
Meanwhile, former Governor of Benue State, Gabriel Suswam, emerged winner of the APC senatorial primary for Benue North-East in a landslide victory.
The Chairman of the National Assembly Primary Election Committee in Benue State, Sabiu Mahuta, announced the results at the APC state secretariat in Makurdi.
According to the declared results, Suswam polled 131,083 votes to defeat Udende, who scored 1,364 votes, alongside other aspirants in the contest.
The outcome has set the stage for further political realignments within the APC in Benue North-East as stakeholders react to the results of the keenly contested primary election.
