This is just as the National Chairman of the APC, Adams Oshiomhole, has reportedly insisted that Onjeh was qualified for the position that any of the contenders.
It was gathered that the APC caucus in Benue State had suggested the National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria, Dickson Akoh, as running mate to Jime, but an impeccable party stalwart told DAILY POST on Friday that because of Oshiomhole’s interest in Benue and for the purpose of capturing the state come 2019, he has insisted to remain with Onjeh, whom he believes is more credible and loved by majority of Benue youths.
According to the source who pleaded anonymity, Oshiomhole having governed Edo State despite coming from the minority, believes Onjeh should be given a chance.
Among those penned down for the number two job in the state were: Akoh, Onjeh, Nelson Alapa, and Samuel Odeh.
It was also learnt that a former governor of the state and Senator representing Benue North West, Goerge Akume, is currently rooting for Odeh to deputize Jime.
However, the source reliably informed DAILY POST that ”Oshiomhole stated that Onjeh should be the party’s deputy governorship candidate due to his track record and his contribution to the party, even in the last campaign,” he said.
The source said Oshiomhole is “not bothered about the aspirants’ various arguments, but that what he cares about is ”how to win Benue in 2019 and revive the state.”
He said, “It is high time Nigerians avoid sentiments and trust people who can deliver.
”As a product of a minority from Edo State that became a strong political figure, Oshiomhole has sympathy for minorities across the country,” he said.
The source disclosed that the party leadership believes that its high time ”we de-emphasize the issue of zoning and go for competence.”
Speaking further, the source said the APC Chairman is convinced that, “Onjeh has the capacity and support of the young people.”
”He believes Onjeh has the pedigree and it surpasses all other sentiments.”
Another impeccable source from the leadership of the party in Benue said the presidency has given Akume condition to choose between the Senate or the deputy governor position as he cannot take both positions.
Our source disclosed that with this condition, ”Onjeh is definitely in for one.”
Another source told DAILY POST that four names have already been forwarded to Jime for consideration but that up till this moment, its difficult for him to choose as he appears uncomfortable with all the names.
But the camp of Dickson Akoh, the Commandant of the National Peace Corps, said they were unperturbed by the report of Oshiomhole allegedly supporting Dan Onjeh. They said they are constantly in touch with the national body of the party and believes the report is the figment of the imagination of those behind it.
The camp believes that even though Dickson Akoh merits the position, he is not desperate, and believes that whatever decision the party takes will be of the best interest of Benue people.
However, when contacted, Onjeh said he was not aware of the development, stressing that he was pursuing his stolen mandate.
“Well, I’m just hearing that from you. I have not been approached and if that is what the leadership of the party wants, well, who am I to kick against their deicion.
“But at the moment, I am fighting to restore my stolen mandate in Benue South,” he said.
Asked if he would forfeit his senatorial ambition for deputy governorship seat, Onjeh said, “My brother, when we get to the bridge, we would cross it.”
Speaking on the development, the Publicity Director of the APC, Apeh Peterhot, said he would not want to comment on the matter.
“I don’t want to comment on the issue because Onjeh is not in the list of those being considered as Jime’s deputy. I don’t know where you got your report from.
“At the moment, those in the list are Dickson Akoh and Samuel Odeh, and the people of Benue South want Akoh,” he said.
