Enhanced Security Measures as APC Conducts Ward Congresses in Benue

A significant security presence was established throughout Benue State as the All Progressives Congress (APC) launched its ward congresses in the 23 local government areas on Wednesday.

Chief Benjamin Omale, the State Chairman of APC, noted that the security measures, coordinated by Governor Hyacinth Alia, sought to ensure an orderly and peaceful process as party affiliates voted for new ward executives and delegates.

Our correspondent reported that in preparation for the congresses, the Benue APC distributed sensitive election materials as early as 7 a.m. at the party's secretariat in Makurdi, supervised by Auwalu Ishaye, who is responsible for the Ward and Local Government Congress Committee.

During his speech to party officials, Ishaye conveyed his belief in the peaceful nature of the Benue populace, and he wished all stakeholders success while urging them to maintain decorum for a seamless electoral event.

Previously, Omale had instructed electoral officers to uphold discipline and orderliness, emphasizing the need for strict adherence to regulations set forth by the party’s National Working Committee (NWC).

Omale also reported that the state government had ensured adequate security deployments in all 23 local government areas to avert any disruptions during the congresses.

James Ornguga, the State Organising Secretary, elaborated that the ward congresses would be responsible for electing 27 executive committee members and 10 delegates - five designated for the state congress and the other five for the local government congress.

He indicated that the state chapter had received oversight from the party's national electoral committees, which are made up of a screening committee, an appeal committee for screening, a ward and local government congress committee, and an additional committee for resolving disputes that might arise from the process.

Ornguga mentioned that the screening committees had verified that Benue was prepared for the congresses, leading to the distribution of materials necessary for the elections.

"Participants will elect the ward executives today, along with five delegates for the state congress and another five for the local government congress," he specified.

He expressed optimism for a peaceful congress, indicating that most positions had only one aspirant, which would likely minimize competitive tensions.

Ornguga stressed that with enhanced security and the expectation of composed party members, the congress process is anticipated to result in a smooth transformation of the ward structures.