The Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended its 2023 Edo South senatorial candidate, Mr. Valentine Asuen, over alleged anti-party activities.
In a statement issued on Monday in Benin, the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, said the suspension was in line with the APC’s 2022 Constitution (as amended) and its disciplinary framework.
According to him, Asuen’s actions contravened Articles 21:2 (ii) & (v) and 21:5 (a), (c), (d), (e), (f) & (h) of the party’s constitution, offences punishable by suspension or expulsion.
“This disciplinary action became necessary following his conduct, which runs contrary to the spirit of unity, loyalty, and collective progress enshrined in our constitution. No act capable of destabilising the party or inciting disaffection among members will be condoned,” Uwadiae-Igbinigie stated.
He also dismissed allegations of lopsidedness in recent political appointments, insisting that Governor Monday Okpebholo had evenly distributed appointments across the state without undue influence from party leaders.
The party spokesman urged members to remain united and focused, warning that indiscipline or disloyalty would attract firm sanctions.
“As a party, we remain committed to internal democracy, discipline, and the protection of our integrity,” he said.
Asuen, a businessman and politician, contested the 2023 Edo South senatorial election on the APC platform but lost to Labour Party’s Neda Imasuen, who has since defected to the APC.
