In a decisive move to uphold its principles of unity and discipline, the Edo State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the immediate suspension of its 2023 senatorial candidate for Edo South, Mr. Valentine Asuen, over allegations of engaging in anti-party activities. The suspension, disclosed on Monday, August 25, 2025, in a statement issued by the party’s State Publicity Secretary, Mr. Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, in Benin, underscores the APC’s unwavering commitment to maintaining internal cohesion and safeguarding its integrity. The action, grounded in the provisions of the APC Constitution 2022 (as amended), reflects the party’s zero-tolerance stance toward actions that threaten its unity and progress, particularly as it prepares for future electoral contests and seeks to consolidate its position in Edo State.
The suspension of Asuen, a prominent businessman and politician, has sparked significant discussion within political circles, highlighting the APC’s determination to enforce discipline and foster unity among its ranks. The statement from Uwadiae-Igbinigie detailed the reasons for the disciplinary action, citing Asuen’s conduct as contrary to the party’s values of loyalty, unity, and collective progress. This development comes at a critical juncture for the APC in Edo State, as it navigates internal dynamics and external challenges in a politically competitive environment. The move signals the party’s resolve to maintain a united front and deliver on its promise of good governance and democratic dividends to the people of Edo State.
Details of the Suspension and Allegations
According to the statement released by Uwadiae-Igbinigie, Asuen’s suspension was enacted in accordance with Articles 21:2 (ii) and (v), and 21:5 (a), (c), (d), (e), (f), and (h) of the APC Constitution 2022 (as amended). These provisions outline the penalties, including suspension or expulsion, for offenses such as anti-party activities, inciting division, and undermining party cohesion. The statement emphasized that Asuen’s actions were deemed capable of creating discord within the party, posing a threat to its unity and discipline.
The APC’s leadership accused Asuen of engaging in conduct that ran counter to the spirit of unity and loyalty enshrined in the party’s constitution. Specifically, the statement highlighted that his actions were seen as inciting division among members, thereby undermining the cohesion and discipline expected of every APC member. While the statement did not provide specific details of the alleged anti-party activities, it underscored the party’s firm stance against any behavior that could destabilize its ranks or fuel disaffection among its members.
“No act capable of destabilizing the party or fuelling disaffection amongst members will be condoned,” Uwadiae-Igbinigie declared, emphasizing the APC’s commitment to internal democracy and discipline. The statement further reiterated the party’s dedication to safeguarding its integrity and ensuring that all members remain focused on delivering good governance to the people of Edo State. This resolute position reflects the APC’s broader strategy to maintain a unified front as it seeks to strengthen its influence in the state and prepare for future elections.
Context of Asuen’s Political Journey
Valentine Asuen, a well-known businessman and politician in Edo State, contested the 2023 Edo South senatorial election as the APC’s candidate. Despite a spirited campaign, he was defeated by Mr. Neda Imasuen of the Labour Party, who has since defected to the APC. Asuen’s loss in the election was a setback for the APC in Edo South, a key senatorial district that includes the state capital, Benin City. The district is politically significant, and the APC’s performance there is critical to its overall influence in Edo State.
Asuen’s suspension comes at a time when the APC is working to consolidate its position in Edo State following the 2023 elections. The state has been a battleground for political parties, with the APC, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the Labour Party vying for dominance. The defection of Neda Imasuen to the APC has bolstered the party’s presence in Edo South, but internal challenges, such as those highlighted by Asuen’s alleged actions, underscore the need for discipline and unity to maintain the party’s momentum.
The suspension also reflects the APC’s broader efforts to address internal divisions and strengthen its organizational structure. Political parties in Nigeria often face challenges related to factionalism, competing interests, and allegations of disloyalty, particularly in the lead-up to elections. By taking swift action against Asuen, the Edo State APC is signaling its commitment to addressing such issues head-on and ensuring that its members adhere to the party’s values and objectives.
Addressing Allegations of Favouritism
In addition to announcing Asuen’s suspension, the APC’s statement addressed concerns about alleged favouritism in recent political appointments made by Governor Godwin Obaseki. Uwadiae-Igbinigie dismissed claims that the appointments were influenced by the party’s secretary, Mr. Lawrence Okah, asserting that they were fairly distributed across Edo State. “The appointments by Governor Obaseki were made to ensure equitable representation and were not swayed by any individual within the party,” he stated, seeking to quell speculation and reinforce the party’s commitment to fairness and inclusivity.
This clarification is significant in the context of Edo State’s complex political landscape, where accusations of bias and favoritism can fuel tensions within and between parties. By addressing these concerns, the APC aims to maintain the confidence of its members and the public, ensuring that its actions are perceived as transparent and equitable. The emphasis on fair distribution also aligns with the party’s broader goal of fostering unity and collective progress, both within its ranks and in its governance of Edo State.
The APC’s Commitment to Discipline and Unity
The suspension of Valentine Asuen is a clear demonstration of the APC’s zero-tolerance policy toward indiscipline and disloyalty. The party’s leadership, through Uwadiae-Igbinigie’s statement, reiterated its commitment to internal democracy, discipline, and safeguarding the party’s integrity. “The APC remains committed to internal democracy, discipline, and safeguarding its integrity,” the statement read. “We call on all members to stay resolute, united, and focused on delivering good governance and democratic dividends to the people.”
This message is particularly relevant as the APC navigates the challenges of governing Edo State and preparing for future electoral contests. The party’s ability to maintain discipline and unity will be critical to its success in delivering on its promises and retaining the support of its members and constituents. By taking decisive action against Asuen, the APC is sending a strong message that it will not tolerate actions that undermine its objectives or threaten its cohesion.
The emphasis on internal democracy also highlights the APC’s commitment to fostering a participatory and inclusive party structure. By adhering to the provisions of its constitution, the party ensures that disciplinary actions are conducted in a transparent and rule-based manner, reinforcing its credibility and accountability. This approach is essential for maintaining the trust of members and the public, particularly in a political environment where allegations of arbitrariness and impunity can erode confidence.
Broader Implications for Edo State Politics
The suspension of Valentine Asuen has broader implications for Edo State’s political landscape, particularly as the state approaches the 2026 gubernatorial election and other future contests. Edo State has a history of intense political competition, with the APC, PDP, and Labour Party vying for control. The APC’s ability to maintain discipline and unity will be critical to its success in these elections, as internal divisions could weaken its position and provide opportunities for rival parties.
Asuen’s suspension also raises questions about the role of prominent individuals within the party and their influence on its direction. As a former senatorial candidate, Asuen was a visible figure in Edo South, and his suspension could have ripple effects on the party’s support base in the region. The APC will need to carefully manage these dynamics to ensure that the suspension does not alienate key supporters or create further divisions.
At the same time, the APC’s decisive action could strengthen its reputation as a disciplined and principled party, appealing to voters who value accountability and governance. By addressing allegations of anti-party activities promptly, the party is demonstrating its commitment to maintaining a united front and delivering on its promises to the people of Edo State.
The Role of Party Constitutions in Political Governance
The APC’s reliance on its 2022 Constitution to justify Asuen’s suspension highlights the importance of party constitutions in guiding political organizations. The cited articles—21:2 (ii) and (v), and 21:5 (a), (c), (d), (e), (f), and (h)—provide a clear framework for addressing infractions such as anti-party activities, incitement, and disloyalty. By grounding its actions in these provisions, the APC ensures that its disciplinary processes are transparent, consistent, and aligned with its governing principles.
Party constitutions play a critical role in maintaining order and discipline within political organizations, particularly in Nigeria’s complex and often fractious political environment. They provide a legal and procedural basis for resolving disputes, addressing misconduct, and ensuring that party members adhere to shared values and objectives. The APC’s adherence to its constitution in this case sets a precedent for other parties and reinforces the importance of rule-based governance in political organizations.
Looking Ahead: Challenges and Opportunities
As the APC moves forward, it will face both challenges and opportunities in maintaining its unity and advancing its agenda in Edo State. The suspension of Valentine Asuen is likely to generate debate within the party and the broader public, with some viewing it as a necessary step to enforce discipline and others questioning its implications for party cohesion. The APC’s leadership will need to navigate these dynamics carefully, ensuring that the suspension does not exacerbate existing tensions or alienate key stakeholders.
At the same time, the suspension presents an opportunity for the APC to reinforce its commitment to discipline and unity, strengthening its position as a leading political force in Edo State. By addressing allegations of anti-party activities decisively, the party can demonstrate its resolve to maintain a united front and deliver on its promises of good governance. This approach could resonate with voters and bolster the APC’s prospects in future elections.
The party’s emphasis on delivering democratic dividends also aligns with the broader expectations of Edo State’s residents, who are seeking tangible improvements in governance, infrastructure, and economic opportunities. By focusing on these priorities, the APC can strengthen its appeal and build a strong foundation for long-term success.
Conclusion
The suspension of Valentine Asuen by the Edo State chapter of the APC marks a significant moment in the party’s efforts to uphold discipline, unity, and integrity. Grounded in the provisions of the APC Constitution 2022, the action reflects the party’s zero-tolerance stance toward anti-party activities and its commitment to fostering a cohesive and disciplined organization. By addressing allegations of misconduct decisively, the APC is sending a clear message to its members and the public that it will not tolerate actions that undermine its objectives or threaten its unity.
As Edo State navigates a complex political landscape, the APC’s focus on internal democracy and good governance will be critical to its success. The suspension of Asuen, while controversial, underscores the party’s determination to maintain discipline and deliver on its promises to the people of Edo State. By leveraging its constitutional framework and addressing internal challenges proactively, the APC is positioning itself as a strong and principled force in Nigeria’s political arena, ready to lead Edo State toward a brighter and more prosperous future.
