The All Progressives Congress has described the defection of the Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom to the Peoples’ Democratic Party as “somewhat surprising.”
Malam Bolaji Abudullahi, APC National Publicity Secretary said this on Wednesday in Abuja, while reacting to the development.
The party recalled efforts made by its National Chairman, Mr Adams Oshiomhole to address some of the grievances raised by the Governor pertaining to the local politics in his state.
“The Governor had left the meeting saying he was satisfied with the assurances given by party leaders,we are still working on giving effect to the resolutions from the meeting.
“Therefore, we are somewhat surprised by Governor Ortom’s decision,” the statement said.
The APC reiterated its earlier position that it respects the rights of every citizen to choose their political affiliation, but expressed hope that those who had left its fold would rescind their decisions.
It added that even with the defection of the governor to the opposition PDP, the party does not think it was too late for reconciliation.
It stressed that the party’s leadership would continue to talk to its aggrieved members across the country, adding that reconciliation was still possible.
This, the statement added would be the situation as long as such members kept their minds open and had the courage to put the real issues on the table.
“We once again call on members across the country to remain calm as the party leadership continues to work hard to position the party strongly for the next general elections,” the statement said.”
