Professor Bem Angwe, who served as the 2023 governorship candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in Benue State, has declared his intention to distance himself from the opposition party.
In a statement issued in Markurdi, the capital of Benue State, Angwe, a former National Legal Adviser of NNPP, explained that he no longer wishes to remain affiliated with the party. He cited various factors for his decision, including the recent unfortunate crisis and widespread confusion that has permeated the party at all levels.
Angwe, who formerly held the position of Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), revealed his plan to refocus on his academic endeavors and contribute to the safeguarding of human rights within the country.
He expressed gratitude to the members and executives of the party who supported him during the 2023 gubernatorial election in Benue. He acknowledged their contributions and steadfastness.
In his own words, Angwe stated, “Considering the recent unfortunate crisis and the confusion that has engulfed the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) at all levels and in accordance with the NNPP Constitution 2022 (as amended), I, on this day of 26th August 2023, withdrew my membership of the NNPP.
“For the avoidance of doubt, I have communicated the notice of my NNPP membership withdrawal to the party Chairman of the Mbatyu NNPP Ward Executive Committee in Gboko Local Government Area of Benue State.
“I wish to express my special appreciation to my Ward, LGA and State party Executive members, other party members, supporters and all my well-wishers throughout Benue State and Nigeria as a whole for the great support they accorded me while I was in the party and during my Governorship campaigns as a Gubernatorial Candidate on the platform of the party.”
He went on to extend his appreciation to his fellow party members, supporters, and well-wishers across Benue State and Nigeria as a whole for their immense support during his tenure in the party and his campaign as a Gubernatorial Candidate on the NNPP platform.