A group of aggrieved members from the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) in Benue South Senatorial District, known as the NDC Integrity Group, has announced its decision to dump the party's presidential candidate, Peter Obi, and instead support President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the 2027 presidential election. The group, led by its Zonal Coordinator, Hon. Yakubu Audu, made this declaration during a courtesy visit to Senator Abba Moro, the Senate Minority Leader, in Otukpo.
According to Hon. Yakubu Audu, the decision to support Tinubu and Abba Moro was based on the need to retain a strong voice for Benue South in the Senate. Audu emphasized that Moro's performance since 2019 made him the preferred choice for the senatorial seat. The group believes that Moro's experience and leadership skills are essential for the district's representation in the 11th National Assembly.
The State Coordinator of the group, Hon. Emmanuel Orih, explained that their move aligns with the Benue State Strategic Alliance led by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation. Orih stated that the group's concept for the 2027 general election is centered around an electoral coalition, which led them to prefer Senator Abba Moro as the PDP candidate and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the preferred candidate for the presidency.
Senator Abba Moro expressed gratitude to the group for prioritizing the interest of Benue South above partisanship. He noted that their action aligns with the strategic alliance led by Senator Akume. Moro advised Benue people to vote based on realities rather than promises, citing the construction of the Abuja-Keffi-Makurdi Road and the ongoing work on the Otukpo-Enugu Highway by the Tinubu administration as examples of his commitment to development.
Moro also shared his views on the governorship election, suggesting that Benue South should assess candidates based on their projects and inclusiveness. While he did not specifically mention Governor Hyacinth Alia, he expressed his concerns about the governor's style of governance. Moro's comments indicate that he is focused on promoting a more inclusive and project-oriented approach to governance in Benue State.
The NDC Integrity Group's decision to support Tinubu and Abba Moro has significant implications for the 2027 elections in Benue South. The group's endorsement of Moro is expected to boost his chances in the senatorial election, while Tinubu's support is likely to enhance his presidential campaign. The development also highlights the ongoing dynamics within Nigeria's political landscape, where alliances and party switches are common.
As the 2027 elections approach, stakeholders in Benue State will be watching closely to see how the NDC Integrity Group's decision influences the electoral outcomes. The group's support for Tinubu and Abba Moro may also have ripple effects on the state's political landscape, potentially shaping the course of future elections and governance in the region.
Key points
- The Benue NDC Integrity Group has switched its support to President Bola Tinubu and Senator Abba Moro for the 2027 elections.
- The group cited Moro's performance and experience as the reason for their support.
- The development is seen as a significant boost to Moro's senatorial campaign and Tinubu's presidential bid.
