Benue Court Strikes Out APC Exco Vote of No Confidence Suit Filed by Ex-Organizing Secretary

A Benue State High Court in Makurdi has struck out a lawsuit filed by former State Organizing Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), James Ornguga, challenging a vote of no confidence passed against him by the party’s executive council in Ugee Council Ward, Gwer Local Government Area.

Ornguga had approached the court, asserting that his right to a fair hearing was breached, as he was not given an opportunity to defend himself before the vote of no confidence was passed.

He sought an order to prevent the APC from taking disciplinary actions against him, including expulsion, suspension, or removal from office.

However, during Wednesday’s hearing, both Ornguga and his legal representative were absent.

The APC’s counsel, M.T. Alyebo, who serves as the party’s State Legal Adviser, urged the court to dismiss the case due to lack of diligent prosecution.

Justice Shishi granted the request, stating, “When the case came up on the last adjournment, the plaintiff’s counsel requested an adjournment, which was granted.

Today, they are not here. I therefore agree with counsel that they have lost interest in the case. Consequently, the case is hereby struck out.”

Ornguga had been suspended by the APC’s Ugee Council Ward for alleged promotion of factionalism and insubordination, among other charges.

However, in a statement on his official Facebook page, Ornguga said he withdrew the case in the interest of party unity.

“The case became needless and overtaken by events following the dissolution of the Austin Agada-led EXCO and formation of a Caretaker Committee in which I am privileged to once again return as Organizing Secretary,” he wrote.

“Having received such recognition from the highest level of party leadership, I felt morally bound not to burden the defendants, most of whom are now former EXCO members.”

Ornguga also thanked the APC National Headquarters for disregarding the suspension notices issued by the previous ward exco and commended his legal team for their efforts throughout the proceedings.