Six sitting members of the House of Representatives of Nigeria under the All Progressives Congress (APC) have lost their re-election bids in Benue State primaries.
The primaries, held ahead of the next general elections, resulted in only four incumbent lawmakers retaining their tickets, according to results announced in Makurdi on Sunday.
The APC National Assembly Primary Election Committee for Benue, led by Sabiu Mahuta, said the exercise was conducted in line with party guidelines despite logistical and security challenges.
Reports indicated that the losing candidates were largely associated with the political bloc loyal to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, while winners were aligned with Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Among those who failed to secure tickets were Austin Achado, David Ogewu, Terseer Ugbor, Sekav Iyortyom, and Dickson Tarkighir.
The committee explained that some wards experienced disruptions, including overvoting and snatching of election materials, which affected parts of the exercise.
Despite the challenges, returning officers eventually completed collation after delays caused by distance and security concerns.
According to results declared, David Nongo defeated Achado with a wide margin, while Peter Ogbodo also secured a decisive victory over Ogewu.
In Makurdi/Guma, Christopher Ikper won convincingly against the incumbent Tarkighir.
Other winners included Gideon Inyom and Anthony Agom.
Meanwhile, incumbents Regina Akume, Ojotu Ojema and Blessing Onuh retained their seats in the primaries.
