By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has suffered a setback following the defection of the Majority Leader of the Benue State House of Assembly, Thomas Dugeri, to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Dugeri, who represents Kwande West State Constituency in the Assembly, formally joined the PDP at the weekend, ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The lawmaker was presented to the immediate past Governor of Benue State and leader of the PDP in the state, Chief Samuel Ortom, at his residence in Abuja by the Deputy Chairman of the PDP in Benue State, Hon. Adzua Ashongo.
Speaking during the meeting, Dugeri expressed appreciation to Ortom, other party leaders and members of the PDP for the warm reception accorded him and his supporters following his defection.
He also thanked PDP members in Kwande and across the state for embracing him and his supporters, describing the reception as encouraging.
Dugeri pledged his loyalty and commitment to the PDP, saying he would work with other party stakeholders to secure victory for the party at all levels in the 2027 general elections.
Receiving the lawmaker into the party, Ortom assured Dugeri and his supporters of equal opportunities and a level playing field within the PDP.
The former governor described the PDP as a broad political family where both old and new members have important roles to play in strengthening the party and advancing its bid to return to power in Benue State in 2027.
Dugeri is also the PDP candidate for Kwande West State Constituency in the 2027 general election.
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