Political Earthquake: Benue Assembly Majority Leader Jumps Ship from APC to PDP
Thomas Dugeri, the Benue State House of Assembly's majority leader, has resigned from the APC to join the PDP, where he will run as a candidate in the 2027 general elections. He was welcomed by former Governor Samuel Ortom, assuring loyalty and equal opportunities within the party.
Thomas Dugeri, the majority leader of the Benue State House of Assembly and representative for Kwande West constituency, has officially resigned from the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Following his departure from the APC, Dugeri promptly joined the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Dugeri's move comes after he lost the APC's return ticket for the State Assembly elections. However, he has now emerged as the PDP candidate for the 2027 general elections, securing a new platform to contest.
His formal introduction to the PDP leadership took place in Abuja, where the State PDP Deputy Chairman, Adzua Ashongo, presented Dugeri to the immediate past Governor of Benue State and current leader of the PDP in the state, Samuel Ortom.
During his meeting with Ortom, Thomas Dugeri affirmed his unwavering loyalty and commitment to the PDP. He pledged to collaborate with other key stakeholders within the party to ensure victory for the PDP in upcoming elections.
In response, Samuel Ortom warmly welcomed Dugeri into the PDP fold. Ortom assured Dugeri and his supporters that they would be afforded equal opportunities and a level playing field within the party structure. He emphasized that the PDP operates as a broad political family where both long-standing and new members are vital in strengthening the party and advancing its mission to regain power in Benue State in 2027.