Benue ADC Primary Collapses Into Factional Violence as Election Process Crumbles

The Benue State chapter of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has plunged into a severe internal crisis after its primary election collapsed into violent factional confrontation, bringing the entire process to a sudden and chaotic halt.

The exercise, intended to produce candidates for the upcoming elections, reportedly unraveled after deep disagreements erupted between rival party blocs over alleged imposition of candidates, disputed delegate arrangements, and accusations of manipulated procedures.

What started as tense exchanges quickly escalated into physical clashes, forcing the suspension of the electoral process as panic spread among delegates, officials, and observers at the venue. The breakdown left the primary inconclusive and the party visibly fractured.

Multiple sources within the party describe the situation as a reflection of long-standing internal mistrust, with factions openly blaming each other for engineering the collapse.

While one side accuses leadership figures of forcing predetermined outcomes, others insist the violence was triggered by resistance to unfair practices.

Security operatives were deployed to restore order and prevent further escalation, but the disruption had already effectively dismantled the process.

The incident has now intensified concerns about the ADC’s internal stability in Benue State, with political observers warning that the party risks weakening its electoral standing if urgent reconciliation and structural reforms are not implemented.