Chief Williams Obande Signals Possible Exit From APC, Says He May Remain Politically Neutral

Chief Dr. Williams Obande Obeya, Owujoi K’Idoma, has disclosed that he is considering resigning his membership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Obande made the disclosure in a message addressed to his supporters and friends, saying the decision followed careful consideration and consultations.

He, however, stressed that his possible resignation from the APC should not be interpreted as an immediate move to another political party.

Rather, the former APC chieftain said he was considering remaining politically neutral in order to assess candidates ahead of the 2027 elections based on their character, competence, quality and vision, rather than their party affiliation.

According to him, politics should be centred on people, service, ideas and community development, rather than party labels.

‘APC Environment Has Become Uncomfortable’

Obande said the political environment within the APC had increasingly become uncomfortable for some of his supporters.

He alleged that some of his supporters had experienced discrimination during party activities, particularly in areas of mobilisation and logistics.

He said although such incidents might appear insignificant, they could send a broader message about how certain individuals within the party view his growing political influence.

“When a party begins to make the supporters of a particular person feel unwelcome, it can create the impression that some individuals see that person’s growing influence or presence as a threat to their own political ambitions,” he stated.

‘We Will Decide Together’

The Owujoi K’Idoma assured his supporters that whatever political decision is eventually taken would be based on consultations.

He said he would continue to support his followers and ensure that nobody felt abandoned, stressing that they would collectively determine which candidates to support in 2027.

“This is not going to be a journey where one person dictates to everyone else; it is a journey we will take together,” he said.

New Direction Rallies

Obande also announced plans to commence what he described as “New Direction” rallies in the coming period.

According to him, the rallies will not be organised under the banner of any political party but will serve as platforms for political engagement, enlightenment and discussions about candidates and their records.

He said the initiative would enable the people to assess candidates based on their competence, character, records and vision before making informed electoral choices.

“New Direction is bigger than any political party,” Obande declared, adding that the movement had built a strong network with sufficient capacity, resources and goodwill to engage politically without depending on any political party.

‘Our Loyalty Is to the People’

While leaving his final decision on APC membership open, Obande said he would not allow anger or personal interest to determine his next political move.

He said the decision would be guided by wisdom, fairness and what is ultimately best for the people.

“Whether I remain in the APC or resign my membership, one thing will remain unchanged: my commitment to our people and our community,” he said.

Obande concluded his message with the declaration:

“Our loyalty is to the people. Our strength is in our unity. Our direction is NEW DIRECTION.”

The development could have implications for the political alignment in Benue ahead of the 2027 elections, particularly as Obande begins consultations with his supporters and prepares to launch the New Direction rallies.