31/05/2026
FOR PARTY UNITY AND 2027 VICTORY: HON. AGUERO MATHEW PLEDGES PEACE, EQUITY, AND SUPPORT FOR ADC CANDIDATE IN OJU/OBI
In a statement aimed at fostering cohesion within the African Democratic Congress, Hon. Chief Aguero Mathew, popularly known as “De Favorite Son” of Oju Council Ward, Oju LGA, has reaffirmed his commitment to party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Chief Mathew, who contested for the Oju/Obi Federal Constituency House of Representatives ticket, clarified that his ambition was rooted not in personal enrichment, but in a sincere desire to serve his people and advance development across Oligede and the wider constituency.
“I did not contest to enrich myself or to siphon public resources for personal gain,” he stated. “My aspiration has always been driven by a genuine commitment to the welfare of our people.”
Describing himself as one of the founding members of ADC in Oju LGA—prior to the recent coalition that adopted the party’s platform—Chief Mathew noted that he has consistently supported both Oju and Obi LGAs alongside the state party leader, Rt. Hon. Samson Okwu, a three-time member of the House of Representatives and current ADC State Chairman for Benue State.
While his decision to contest was borne out of conviction and a sense of duty, Chief Mathew emphasized that his ambition has never superseded the need for internal peace. He expressed regret that party leadership did not engage him directly to explain any reservations about his candidacy. Had such consultations occurred, he maintained, he would have withdrawn in good faith and supported the party’s chosen candidate, as he has done previously.
Following the recent stakeholders’ decision, Chief Mathew disclosed that he received numerous calls from aggrieved supporters urging him to purchase nomination forms or defect to another party. In the interest of collective progress, however, he has chosen to prioritize unity over personal ambition.
“I, Hon. Chief Aguero Mathew, hereby declare that I will maintain peace and harmony within the party to ensure that ADC emerges victorious in 2027,” he declared. He subsequently urged all supporters and stakeholders to rally behind Barr. John Aduma Ogbu of Ukpa/Ainu Ette, who was favored by stakeholders, as he continues in the race.
In the spirit of equity and inclusivity, Chief Mathew also made a respectful appeal to the LGA Chairman of the Party, Hon. John Ode, who hails from the same Ukpa/Ainu Ette council ward, to consider relinquishing his position. He argued that transferring the chairmanship to another ward or zone would promote cohesion and a sense of belonging among members from other wards who contested and lost.
“This act of fairness will encourage unity and motivate all of us to campaign vigorously for our party’s candidates in 2027,” he added, calling on party leadership to address the matter promptly in the interest of peace and progress.
Concluding his address, Chief Mathew expressed profound appreciation to his supporters for their loyalty, sacrifice, and steadfast belief in the cause. “Our time will surely come at the appointed time,” he assured. “Congratulations to all of us for standing firm for democracy and the future of ADC.”
ADC, ARISE AND SHINE NIGERIA!
Credit: Hon. Chief Aguero Mathew
Oju Council Ward
African Democratic Congress, ADC
