By Sunday Apah
The Delta State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has formally disassociated itself from the recent activities of Chief Paulinus Akpeki, the Vice Chairman for the Delta Central Senatorial District, concerning his alleged submission of a reconciliation report to the party’s National Chairman.
In a statement issued by Chief Francis Obigbor, the Acting Chairman of Delta State APC, the party clarified that Chief Akpeki did not possess the authority to receive or present the report from the reconciliation committee led by Olorogun O’Tega Emerhor on behalf of the State Working Committee. Chief Obigbor characterized Akpeki’s actions as an overreach and an intentional effort to sow confusion within the party.
The Delta State APC urged the party’s National Chairman and the National Working Committee (NWC) to disregard any reports or claims made by Chief Akpeki, highlighting that his actions were unauthorized.
Reassuring party members and stakeholders, Chief Obigbor encouraged them to remain calm and focused despite the disruption caused by this incident. He emphasized that he, as Acting Chairman, was awaiting the official submission of the reconciliation report from the O’Tega Emerhor committee.
Upon receipt of the report, Chief Obigbor expressed his intent to present it to the State Working Committee, the State Caucus, and the State Executive Committee for thorough discussion and appropriate action.
He further stated his commitment to serving as Acting Chairman until Elder Omeni Sobotie, the substantive chairman, returns to preside over meetings at the State Secretariat in Asaba.
The statement concluded: “The Delta State Chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has noted an unauthorized presentation by Chief Paulinus Akpeki, Vice Chairman of Delta Central Senatorial District, regarding a report said to be from the Olorogun O’Tega Emerhor-led reconciliation committee.
“We emphatically assert that Chief Akpeki lacks the authority to receive or present any report to the National Chairman. His actions represent a clear usurpation of power and an attempt to create confusion within our ranks.
“We implore the National Chairman and the National Working Committee (NWC) to dismiss this report and any actions attributed to Chief Akpeki.
“To our dedicated party members and stakeholders, we encourage you to remain calm and not be swayed by this unauthorized maneuver.
“As the Acting Chairman of the Delta State APC, I await the formal submission of the O’Tega Emerhor committee’s report. Once I receive it, I shall present it to the State Working Committee, State Caucus, and State Executive Committee for extensive discussion and necessary subsequent actions.
“I will continue in my role as Acting Chairman until Elder Omeni Sobotie returns and is present to conduct meetings held at the State Secretariat in Asaba.”
