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In a development that has stirred fresh political tension in Benue State, Senator Emmanuel Udende has raised serious concerns over alleged vote manipulation during the All Progressives Congress (APC) senatorial primary for the North-East zone. The senator claimed that the electoral process was compromised at some polling centres, casting a shadow on the credibility of the exercise.
Despite the allegations, former Governor Gabriel Suswam emerged as the clear winner of the primary in a landslide victory. Official results showed Suswam polling a massive 131,083 votes, while Senator Udende managed 1,364 votes.
In a statement following the outcome, Udende appreciated his supporters for turning out massively and voting according to their conscience. He expressed optimism that the alleged irregularities would eventually be addressed by the party, maintaining a measured tone even in defeat.
The dramatic result has sparked reactions across the North-East zone of Benue State, with stakeholders closely watching to see what further steps the APC will take regarding the complaints. The primary outcome positions Suswam as the party’s candidate for the senatorial seat ahead of the upcoming general elections.
As the dust settles, many observers believe the controversy could shape the dynamics of APC’s internal cohesion in the state in the weeks ahead.
There was not official primary election in Benue North East Senatorial District. It was just a manipulation. Many wards in Ukum LGA are displace, but election are conducted in those wards. Where do they get people that voted in those wards? It was manipulation.