Kachikwu, Utomi, others shun APC primaries

Prof. Pat Utomi

The crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress, APC deepened on Sunday as three of the four governorship aspirants have opted out while asking for a postponement as delegate lists remained elusive to them.

This was disclosed by one of the aspirants, Prof Pat Utomi who addressed journalists in Asaba, just as efforts by journalists to access the Federal Technical College, Asaba primaries venue, was abortive, as the gate was barricaded by gun-wielding security operatives.

Utomi described the process as illegitimate, adding that the delegates list is unavailable for the aspirants, which is against the norm as they are supposed to be able to access the lists three days to the primaries.

He said at a meeting between critical stakeholders that included Major General Lawrence Onoja, rtd., three of the aspirants suggested a postponement due to the shortcomings that have plagued the shadow polls.

According to Utomi those present at the meeting included ex-Gov Emmanuel Uduaghan, Victor Ochei, Prof Pat Utomi and Dr Ibe Kachikwu.

“The delegates list is not available, aspirants have not seen the list,” Utomi said.

“I believe only those who drew up the list have it. The list should have been made available to all at least three days to the primaries to enable aspirants to make their pitch to them. There is no level playing field for all aspirants.

“This will create a crisis of legitimacy. We have suggested that the primaries be postponed, that way we will have a truly democratic process.”