Daniel Onjeh has praised the leadership of Hyacinth Alia and the conduct of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ward congresses across Benue State, describing the exercise as peaceful, orderly and a positive step towards rebuilding internal cohesion within the party.

In a statement on the outcome of the exercise, the former Benue South senatorial candidate said the ward congress reflected the determination of party members to move beyond past disagreements and strengthen internal democracy within the All Progressives Congress.

Onjeh said the congresses were “largely rancour free” and conducted in line with party guidelines, noting that the atmosphere across wards showed a renewed commitment by members to work together for the progress of the party.

He particularly commended the chairman of the ward congress committee in the state, Hon. Awolowo, and other members of the committee for what he described as firm, fair and professional supervision of the exercise.

According to him, the conduct of the committee inspired confidence among party members and ensured that the process remained transparent and credible.

Onjeh also praised Governor Alia for what he called his steady and inclusive leadership style, saying the governor’s openness to different tendencies within the party and his support for broad participation during the congress contributed significantly to stabilising the APC after a period of internal challenges.

Reflecting on recent developments in the party, Onjeh said the APC in Benue had passed through difficult moments that tested its unity and resilience.

“This phase calls for maturity, sacrifice and renewed commitment from all members, irrespective of individual outcomes, so that unity and stability can be preserved,” he said.

He appealed to aspirants who did not emerge victorious at the ward level to accept the outcome in the spirit of sportsmanship and continue to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the party ahead of future elections.

Onjeh said leadership positions should not be seen as the only means of serving the party and the people, urging members to remain active and constructive in party affairs.

While congratulating those elected as ward executives, he advised them to see their emergence as a call to responsibility, inclusiveness and reconciliation, and to work closely with stakeholders at all levels of the party.

The former chairman of the Projects Development Institute and ex-president of the National Association of Nigerian Students stressed that strong grassroots structures remain critical to electoral success and effective governance.

He expressed optimism that the successful conduct of the ward congress would set a positive tone for the forthcoming local government and state congresses, and reaffirmed his commitment to working with party stakeholders to ensure a stronger and more united APC in Benue.