Delta APC Stakeholders Raise Alarm Over “Hostile Takeover,” Get Worried On Implications For Party Unity

By Frank Oshanugor

A coalition of concerned All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Delta State has issued a strong warning to the party’s national leadership, alleging a “disastrous handling of party affairs” that threatens to fracture the Delta chapter and could set a dangerous precedent for the APC nationwide.

In a strongly worded statement signed by Hon. Innocent Okafor, Chief Press Secretary to Dr. Emma Ejiofor, leader of the stakeholders, accused the party of unilaterally integrating members of the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) into the Delta APC without any consultation with existing party structures.

They described the process as a “hostile takeover” that has left loyal APC members feeling “disregarded,” “betrayed,” and as if their years of dedication “count for nothing.”
We have toiled and labored for years to build this party in Delta State,” Chief Ejiofor stated.

“Now, we are being treated as if we have been conquered without a fight, left at the mercy of individuals who, until recently, were our political adversaries.”

The stakeholders outlined a series of specific grievances, including: Complete Lack of Consultation in which case critical decisions were made in Abuja without any input from state, local, or ward-level executives, violating established protocols.

The stakeholders also cited violation of party constitution whereby new members are allegedly being given positions of authority without even formally registering in their respective wards. This is a clear breach of APC rules.

The allegations of co-opting of transactional leaders was also brought to the fore. Concerns are raised about individuals within the party prioritizing personal gain over the long-term health and stability of the Delta APC.

Inflammatory and divisive rhetoric arising from the utterances of some new entrants are perceived as unjust, further alienating long-standing party members. This is even as the party is undermining existing structures with the result that wholesale integration is systematically dislodging loyal party members who have worked tirelessly for the party.

The statement emphasized that the situation has raised a fundamental question asking: “If these individuals possess the supposed ‘wherewithal to win elections,’ why was it necessary to bypass the existing party structure and, in effect, conquer us?” The stakeholders believe the intention is to render them politically irrelevant.

National Implications Highlighted

The Delta APC stakeholders are not only concerned about the situation in their state. They warn of significant national implications if the national leadership fails to act decisively.

“This is a dangerous precedent,” the statement reads. “If left unchecked, the fallout from this situation will not be confined to Delta State. It will create a ripple effect, demoralizing party members in other states who fear being treated with similar disregard. This is not the way to reward loyalty, dedication, and hard work. This is not how you build a strong and united party.”

Call to Action

The stakeholders are imploring the APC National Chairman to urgently intervene, demanding a thorough investigation into the situation in Delta State and a commitment to rectifying the perceived injustices. They are seeking clear direction from the national leadership and re-assurance that the voices of loyal party members will be heard and respected.

“We believe that a stitch in time saves nine,” Chief Ejiofor concluded, “and we look forward to the party’s favorable understanding and decisive action to address these unacceptable and unwarranted behaviors.”