APC rejects Niger Delta minister’s gubernatorial ticket claims

As President Muhammadu Buhari visits Calabar, Cross River State, today, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has again rejected the governorship claims of the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Uguru Usani.

Despite the ruling by the high court in Abuja, the jingle of Usani as the governorship candidate of the party has reportedly been on the airwaves through a private radio station in the state.

But a statement yesterday signed by the acting state chairman of the party, Sir John Ochala, declared that Usani was not the party’s candidate, calling his action a “clear onslaught” on the party’s electoral chances.

“Our attention has been drawn to trending media reports credited to the Minister of Niger Delta Affairs, Pastor Usani Uguru Usani, whereby he parades as the governorship candidate of the APC in Cross River State.

“All the institutions relevant to the emergence of candidates, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the national secretariat of our party and even the law enforcement agencies have the name of Sen. John Enoh as the party’s governorship candidate in Cross River.

“In a matter instituted by him (Usani) regarding the issue of candidacy, a federal high court in Abuja presided over by Justice Olukayode Adeniyi had delivered judgment rejecting his prayers to be made the party’s candidate. In fact, the court verdict de-recognised him as having taken part in the process of party primary elections that led to the emergence of candidates. Pastor Usani should tell the world at what point he emerged as the party’s governorship candidate as he continues to parade as such.”

According to Ochala, this latest attempt by the minister to impose himself on the gullible public, “in our consideration, confirms our earlier belief that Usani is working had to actualise the agenda of Governor Ben Ayade, who is bent on distracting our party from electoral victory” and at the same time sabotage the chances of the party at all levels, including the presidency.