The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the suspension of Mr. Valentine Asuen, its 2023 senatorial candidate for Edo South, citing alleged anti-party activities.
In a statement released in Benin City on Monday, State Publicity Secretary of the APC, Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigi, stated that the suspension was enacted in accordance with the party’s constitution and disciplinary framework.
Uwadiae-Igbinigi explained that Asuen’s actions contravened Articles 21:2 (ii) & (v) and 21:5 (a), (c), (d), (e), (f) & (h) of the APC constitution (2022), which are punishable by suspension or expulsion. He elaborated that Asuen was found culpable of actions that incited division within the party, undermining cohesion and discipline.
“This disciplinary action became necessary following his conduct, which runs contrary to the spirit of unity, loyalty, and collective progress enshrined in our constitution,” Uwadiae-Igbinigi stated. “No act capable of destabilizing the party or inciting disaffection amongst members will be condoned.”
Addressing concerns about the distribution of political appointments, the APC spokesman refuted claims of lopsidedness, asserting that Governor Monday Okpebholo’s appointments have been evenly distributed across the state without undue influence from the party’s secretary, Mr. Lawrence Okah.
Uwadiae-Igbinigi urged party members to remain united and focused on the APC’s vision, cautioning that indiscipline and disloyalty would be met with firm sanctions.
“The APC remains committed to internal democracy, discipline, and the protection of its integrity,” he said. “We call on all members to remain steadfast, united, and committed to delivering good governance and democratic dividends to the people.”
Asuen, a prominent businessman, was the APC’s candidate for the Edo South Senatorial seat in the 2023 elections. He lost to the Labour Party candidate, Neda Imasuen, who has since defected to the APC.
