By Abel Zwanke
The member representing Eggon East Constituency in the Nasarawa State House of Assembly, Jacob Ajegena Kudu, has rejected the failure of the All Progressives Congress to conduct its primary election for the constituency, describing the development as a violation of democratic principles and internal party procedures.
Addressing journalists in Lafia on Thursday, Kudu, who is seeking re-election for a second term on the APC platform, expressed disappointment over what he described as the party’s inability to organise a transparent and credible primary election in the constituency.
According to him, party members, delegates, stakeholders, and supporters had gathered peacefully on the scheduled date in anticipation of a free and fair exercise, but the election was never conducted.
“It is with deep concern and disappointment that I address the unfortunate events surrounding the APC primary election for Eggon East State Constituency, which was expected to hold in line with the guidelines and democratic principles of our party,” he said.
The lawmaker alleged that after confusion trailed the exercise, he visited the local government secretariat to seek clarification and was informed that the returning officer assigned to supervise the election and receive materials was absent.
“I was further told that the Local Government Chairman was contacted and that he went away with the election materials meant for the conduct of the primary election,” Kudu stated.
He further claimed that when he contacted the council chairman directly for clarification, the chairman informed him that he was not in town and was in Gudi at the time.
Kudu said the incident had raised serious concerns about accountability, transparency, fairness, and adherence to due process within the party.
“Democracy thrives only when internal party processes are conducted fairly and all aspirants are given equal opportunity to participate,” he said.
While reaffirming his loyalty to the APC, the lawmaker said he remained committed to the unity and progress of the party but would reject any attempt to deny the people of Eggon East their democratic rights.
“However, I strongly reject any attempt to deny the people of Eggon East Constituency their democratic right to participate in a free, fair, and credible primary election,” he added.
Kudu called on the party’s appeal committee and leadership to thoroughly investigate the matter and ensure that justice prevails through the conduct of a transparent primary election in the constituency.
He also assured his supporters and constituents of his continued commitment to serving them with integrity, dedication, and accountability.
