The campaign headquarters of Hon. Sam Odeh has commended supporters across Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency for their commitment during the recently concluded primary election while expressing concerns over aspects of the exercise’s conduct.
In a statement signed by the Head of Campaign and Strategy, Bakali Maina, the campaign praised party members, stakeholders, and supporters who participated in the process, describing their dedication as a demonstration of loyalty to democratic principles and the party.
The campaign said the events surrounding the primaries further strengthened confidence in Hon. Sam Odeh’s leadership qualities, resilience, and commitment to providing effective representation for the constituency.
According to the statement, the campaign also appreciated the intervention of the party’s state chairman, who reportedly responded to concerns raised by aspirants and stakeholders over the delegate-based primary format initially proposed. The intervention was said to have aligned the process with provisions of the Electoral Act and restored confidence among party members.
However, the campaign expressed dissatisfaction with the handling of the exercise, citing delays and poor communication. It noted that party members and aspirants arrived at the venue as early as 9 a.m. but proceedings did not begin until about 8:45 p.m. Participants were later informed that direct primaries would commence around 10 p.m. after efforts to reach a consensus failed.
The statement further explained that because Jos North was under a government-imposed curfew, aspirants appealed for a more practical arrangement, leading to the exercise being rescheduled for 6 a.m. the following day. Despite supporters gathering at designated locations across Bassa and Jos North at the agreed time, election officials reportedly failed to arrive, and no official communication was provided until later.
The campaign acknowledged the role played by the state chairman in ensuring the process eventually proceeded. It claimed that the turnout and level of support across the constituency indicated that Sam Odeh enjoyed widespread backing among party members.
Despite this, the campaign alleged that a “placeholder candidate” was announced instead of adhering to the outcome of the direct primary process.
While maintaining loyalty to the party, the campaign said it would continue to monitor developments surrounding the decision, emphasizing the need for fairness, transparency, and due process in party affairs.
The statement reiterated confidence in Sam Odeh, describing him as a leader who remained steadfast throughout the process and resisted pressure and inducements.
The campaign also urged supporters to remain calm and focused, stressing that the pursuit of effective representation and justice within democratic institutions requires patience and perseverance.
“We remain steadfast and optimistic as we await the final decisions of the party,” the statement concluded.
