From Austine Tule, Makurdi
Over 4000 members comprising those of the People’s Democratic Party(PDP), the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) and Social Democratic Party( SDP) have defected into the All Progressives Congress(APC), in Benue State.
The AUTHORITY gathered that the defectors were led by Hon. Emmanuel Udende, a two term member of the House of Representatives.
Udende hails from SANKERA, a political bloc, known for its notoriety on issues of crime in recent times. It has experienced the highest wave of crime in Benue North East Senatorial District of the state.
Speaking at the event, Minister for Special Duties and Inter-Governmental Affairs, Sen. George Akume, urged the people of Sankera to consolidate on the peace that is gradually returning to the area.
Akume, while acknowledging the people as big contributors to the Food Basket of the Nation status of Benue State implored the people to shun termination of lives of their kins.
“Jealously guide the peace that you are experiencing at the moment,” Akume said while reiterating the need for forgiveness and in sharing among themselves what they have.
“It’s a big lie, if anybody tells you Akume does not like Sankera. I don’t like you, yet I handed over power to you?,” the former Governor questioned.
He commended Udende for returning to the APC fold, saying it was important to align with the central government in order to derive maximum benefits.
On his part, Barr. , Udende described Akume as a compassionate leader who is always at home with his people in all circumstances.
The erstwhile federal lawmaker noted that having played politics with different leaders in the state , he was only able to impact better on the lives of his people while working with Sen Akume which he informed explained his return to the broom party.
Chairman of the occassion Senator Jack Tilley-Gyado, also expressed satisfaction with the relative peace being experienced in the federal constituency.
He commended Udende for his thoughtfulness by returning back to his leader’s party.
Gyado implored the people of Sankera to join forces with the led APC, saying,it was poised towards improving on the lives of all Nigerians.
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