23/03/2026
RT. HON. ABU UMORU OFFICIALLY JOINS APA APC WITH WARM RECEPTION
…Declares intention for Apa/Agatu House of Representatives
A prominent political development has taken place in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State as Rt. Hon. Abu Umoru, the Benue State Deputy Majority Leader, officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), alongside a large number of his supporters.
The historic event, which held in Ugbokpo, the headquarters of Apa LGA, drew a massive crowd of party faithful, stakeholders, and residents, signaling a significant shift in the political landscape of the area.
Rt. Hon. Umoru was warmly received into the APC by party executives, elders, women groups, youths, and various support groups who turned out in large numbers to welcome him and his team. The atmosphere was charged with excitement and optimism as party leaders described his return as a homecoming and a major boost for the APC in Apa.
In a significant show of regional unity, APC executives from Agatu Local Government Area were also in attendance, alongside several PDP members from Agatu who joined in solidarity, further underscoring the growing political realignment in the Apa/Agatu axis.
Speaking during the event, Rt. Hon. Abu Umoru expressed deep joy and fulfillment at what he described as “finally returning home.” He noted that his decision to join the APC was driven by his commitment to the progress, unity, and development of Apa and its people. He emphasized that the APC remains the most viable platform to deliver meaningful governance and sustainable development.
Highlighting the achievements of the APC-led administration under Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, Rt. Hon. Umoru commended ongoing infrastructural and developmental strides across the state. He cited key projects such as the Onbaji–Agagbe Road, the construction of the Oju–Owaji Road, the Otukpo water supply improvement project, the Ado road construction, and the approval of 5km road projects in all local government headquarters across Benue State, including Apa and Agatu.
He also applauded the administration for creating employment opportunities for sons and daughters of Apa and Agatu within the Benue State teaching system, describing it as a clear demonstration of inclusive governance and commitment to human capital development.
In a bold political declaration, Rt. Hon. Umoru announced his intention to contest for the Federal House of Representatives seat for Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency in the 2027 general elections. He assured party members and the people of the constituency of his readiness to provide purposeful and people-oriented representation if given the mandate.
“I am here to work with all of you to build a stronger APC in Apa. Together, we will ensure that opposition parties are reduced to nothing in this local government. Our goal is unity, development, and progress for our people,” he stated.
He further pledged to run a peaceful, inclusive, and issue-based campaign, urging his supporters and party members to maintain decorum and avoid political hostility. Drawing from his experience as a former member of the Benue State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Umoru assured the people that he would operate an open-door policy, ensuring accessibility, transparency, and accountability in leadership.
“I have always believed in an open-door system of leadership, where the people have direct access to their representative. That will not change. If entrusted with this responsibility, I will continue to serve with humility and dedication,” he added.
The event was graced by notable political figures, including the Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Hon. Lami Danladi, and the Member representing Adoka/Ugboju State Constituency, Rt. Hon. Michael Audu, alongside other lawmakers and key stakeholders. Their presence underscored the importance of the occasion and the growing unity within the APC across the state.
Also in attendance were prominent leaders and stakeholders from Apa, including Elder Dan Ale, Barr. Adah Ochiloli, Engr. Garba, Hon. Emmanuel Hayaha Eigege (Governor’s Liaison Officer for Apa), Barr. Omale Omale, Hon. Ben Ekah, the Executive Chairman of Apa Local Government, Hon. Adams Ochege, and his councilors. The APC State Executives were represented, as well as the Apa Local Government APC Chairman, Hon. Emmanuel Abutu, alongside ward executives and other party officials.
Several 2027 political aspirants, APC support groups, and invited guests also graced the occasion, demonstrating a strong show of solidarity and unity within the party. Speakers at the event took turns to commend Rt. Hon. Umoru for his courage and foresight in joining the APC, describing his move as timely and strategic.
Party leaders assured him of their full support as he begins his journey toward the 2027 elections. They noted that his experience, grassroots connection, and leadership qualities position him as a strong contender capable of delivering victory for the APC in the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency.
Women and youth groups also expressed their excitement, pledging their loyalty and readiness to mobilize support for Rt. Hon. Umoru and the APC. They described his entry into the party as a unifying factor that would strengthen the party’s structure and electoral chances.
The defection of Rt. Hon. Abu Umoru and his supporters is widely seen as a major political gain for the APC in Apa Local Government Area. Analysts believe that this development could significantly reshape the political dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections, particularly in the Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency.
As the event concluded, there was a renewed sense of purpose among APC members, with calls for unity, cooperation, and sustained grassroots engagement. The party reaffirmed its commitment to inclusiveness and development, welcoming new members and encouraging others to join the movement.
With this high-profile defection and declaration of intent, Rt. Hon. Abu Umoru has undoubtedly set the stage for what promises to be a highly engaging and competitive political journey toward 2027.
Report by:
APC Benue South Media and Publicity Team