The Edo chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has suspended Valentine Asuen over alleged acts of indiscipline and conduct considered detrimental to the unity of the party.
The Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, appointed Asuen as the Chairman of the Edo State Forestry Commission in April.
The suspension of the governor’s aide has reportedly caused tension in the Edo APC.
In a statement on Monday, Peter Uwadiae-Igbinigie, APC publicity secretary in Edo, said the decision followed a review of Asuen’s actions, which were deemed to violate the party’s constitution.
He said Asuen was accused of engaging in activities that incited division and undermined the loyalty expected of members.
Part of the statement read: “The suspension was carried out in line with Article 21 of the APC Constitution (2022, as amended), which prescribes offences and disciplinary measures for members whose actions threaten the stability of the party.
“The behaviour attributed to Hon. Valentine Asuen falls under the category of infractions that attract sanctions, including suspension.”
The party reaffirmed its commitment to internal discipline and democracy, saying it would not condone any act capable of creating disaffection among members.
It also dismissed insinuations that appointments had been influenced by the state secretary, Lawrence Okah, insisting that all positions so far by Okpebholo were equitably shared across Edo, including Oredo local government area.
The party urged members to remain united, adding that it would stay focused on good governance and the delivery of democratic dividends to the people.
