The African Democratic Congress in Benue State has inaugurated a committee to select a running mate for its governorship candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The party had earlier nominated former House of Representatives member for Konshisha/Vandeikya Federal Constituency, Herman Hembe, as its governorship candidate during its primary election.
According to the party, the committee was established following a formal request from the governorship candidate to ensure a careful and strategic choice of a deputy.
Inaugurating the committee on Monday, the state party secretary, Peter Chirzenden, said the selection process would be guided by strict standards aimed at strengthening the party’s chances in the election.
He explained: “It is in view of this that we have sought, we have sat and carefully selected men and women of proven integrity, men of timber and calibre, who will come together and look into how we are going to select a running mate for the candidate of our great party in the 2027 governorship election, in the person of Rt. Hon. Hembe.”
Chirzenden stressed that the party was not just interested in filling a position, but in choosing someone who would contribute meaningfully to the party’s growth and electoral success.
He added: “We charge you that as you go about sitting and deliberating sincerely on bringing a running mate to our governorship candidate, not just someone who will be a running mate, but somebody who is democratic in nature and who will also contribute his own quota to the progress and development of our party.”
The committee, which includes prominent figures such as Senator Orke Jev, Engr. Okpe Onah, AVM Steve Onuh, Prof. David Salifu, and others, has been tasked with identifying a candidate who meets the party’s expectations.
Other members include Mrs Rose Ameh, Barr. Ogah Okwu, Hon. Jack Mulya, Mrs Abeje Egwa, and Hon. Alex Igwe.
The committee has been given until June 20, 2026, to submit its report.
Chairman of the committee, Okpe Onah, assured party members of a transparent and value-driven process, pledging that the team would prioritize competence and credibility in its recommendation.
He said the goal is to present a candidate who would enhance the party’s appeal and strengthen its chances in the forthcoming governorship election in Benue State.
