Edoh Rejects Alleged ADC Governorship Zoning In Benue

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the African Democratic Congress in Benue State, Dr Raymond Edoh, has rejected the alleged zoning and endorsement of a candidate ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

Edoh described the development as unconstitutional, premature, and inconsistent with democratic principles and the party’s internal procedures.

Speaking through his Media Director, Emmanuel Daudu, in Benue State on Saturday, the ADC chieftain called on the party’s LEADERSHIP to provide a level playing field for all aspirants seeking the governorship ticket.

He questioned how a seven-member committee, which he described as non-elected, could allegedly undertake a zoning exercise and endorse a candidate when the party had yet to commence its nomination process.

Edoh demanded clarification from the party leadership on the legality of the committee, its terms of reference and the authority backing its actions.

He also asked whether the committee was constituted as a zoning, screening, or selection panel and what criteria were used to identify persons allegedly involved in the process.

The governorship aspirant stressed the need for strict adherence to the ADC constitution, democratic principles and political ethics to preserve unity within the party.

He noted that Benue politics, particularly within the Tiv political tradition, had operated an established rotational arrangement for political offices over the years.

According to him, the current political understanding involving the Vandeikya Federal Constituency was still midway through its expected tenure.

Edoh warned that any attempt to alter the arrangement without broad consultation could create tension and weaken party cohesion ahead of the 2027 polls.

He also opposed the idea of zonal primaries, insisting that all aspirants should be allowed to contest freely in an open and transparent process.

“Democracy thrives on openness, fairness, due process and healthy competition,” he stated.

Edoh urged the national and state leadership of the ADC to distance themselves from the alleged zoning arrangement and ensure that all decisions regarding the governorship ticket comply with democratic procedures and the party constitution.

He further appealed to party leaders to resolve internal disputes amicably to prevent factional divisions within the ADC.

“The future of Benue State must be anchored on fairness, competence, inclusiveness and sincerity of purpose — not narrow political calculations,” he added.

Edoh reaffirmed his commitment to the party’s unity and progress, pledging to continue advocating justice, democratic values, and equal opportunities for all aspirants.