Fresh political tension is brewing in Katsina-Ala East State Constituency following reports of a closed-door meeting allegedly held with selected stakeholders across the state, where sensitive directives were communicated without clarity or official backing.
At the heart of the controversy is a claim that government appointees and civil servants who have not resigned from their positions should not be considered as contestants in the forthcoming political process, an assertion that has since triggered confusion, resistance, and rising anxiety among aspirants.
According to sources present at the meeting, the message was relayed by Hon. Jerry Gwaza, who reportedly maintained that he was only sent to deliver the directive and not to entertain questions.
This response came after concerned aspirants sought clarification, pointing out existing electoral guidelines which traditionally allow resignation either after primaries or within a stipulated period often 90 days to the general election. Rather than providing clarity, the situation was further compounded when the zoning chairman, Hon. Jonathan Lahave, was said to have backed the stance, effectively shutting down dialogue and deepening suspicion.
What should have been a routine internal engagement has now snowballed into a major source of tension within the constituency. Even more troubling are allegations that some individuals, believed to be aligned with certain powerful interests, have begun issuing threats to perceived rivals.
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The atmosphere, once competitive but civil, is now described by insiders as volatile, with fears that if not urgently addressed, it could degenerate into violence or worse outcomes.
This development raises serious concerns about the unauthorized use of the governor’s name to push contested positions. If indeed such a directive exists, it begs the question: why was it not communicated through the appropriate and recognized channels, such as the Governor’s Press Secretary or the party’s official communication structure? And if it does not exist, then the implications are even more damaging, suggesting a dangerous trend where individuals arrogate to themselves the authority to speak for the governor, thereby risking misinformation and disaffection within party ranks.
The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) must act swiftly and decisively to restore order and confidence in the process. Internal democracy, fairness, and transparency are the pillars upon which party unity stands, and any deviation, real or perceived can fracture the base and weaken the party’s standing ahead of critical elections.
The leadership of the party in Benue State must immediately investigate these claims, clarify the true position, and caution those who may be fanning the flames of discord.
Equally important is the need to protect the hard-earned image of the governor, who has consistently projected a leadership style anchored on justice, inclusivity, and due process. Allowing such controversies to linger unchecked not only undermines his credibility but also hands political opponents an opportunity to exploit internal cracks.
The situation in Katsina-Ala East is a warning sign. It must not be ignored. The governor and the APC owe it to the people, and to their own political future to intervene, douse the tension, and ensure that the political space remains open, fair, and safe for all aspirants..
