The All Progressives Congress (APC) Benue State Chapter has strongly condemned what it perceives as deliberate efforts by Governor Hyacinth Alia and his appointees to undermine the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Dr. George Akume. In a comprehensive statement issued by Daniel Ihomun, the APC’s State Publicity Secretary, the party criticized the governor’s purported involvement in orchestrating recent calls for Akume’s removal from office.
The APC described the situation as a calculated distraction aimed at diminishing Akume’s influence and performance at the federal level. The party expressed disappointment over a recent statement by the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, which sought to absolve Governor Alia of culpability. The APC insisted that the governor’s role in fostering the calls for Akume’s replacement could not be ignored, given recent developments within the state’s political circles.
In response to Kula’s claim that Governor Alia recommended Senator George Akume for the SGF position, the APC categorically debunked the assertion as misleading and baseless. According to the party, Senator Akume’s appointment was not a result of Alia’s influence but was based on Akume’s longstanding political alliance with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, his impressive political track record, and the strategic zoning of the position to the North Central region.
“Senator Akume and President Tinubu have maintained a strong political relationship for decades, dating back before the days of the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN). Akume’s appointment as SGF reflects President Tinubu’s trust in his leadership and capabilities, not any recommendation from Governor Alia,” the APC emphasized.
The Party further opined that Akume’s appointment was a product of meticulous political considerations and his reputation for excellence in governance. By attributing the appointment to Governor Alia, the party argued, the CPS was attempting to create a narrative that lacked credibility and betrayed a misunderstanding of national political dynamics.
The APC raised questions about the governor’s selective approach to discipline within his administration, citing inconsistencies in how his appointees are treated for actions deemed detrimental to the party’s unity. The statement referenced a recent incident where a commissioner was labeled a “saboteur” and suspended indefinitely for allegedly acting without consulting the governor.
By contrast, the APC noted that Governor’s Liaison Officers (GLOs) who publicly called for Akume’s removal were not only left unpunished but were reportedly received at the Government House by Hon. Paul Biam, the Chief of Staff to the Governor. According to the APC, the GLOs were treated to a banquet and assured of the governor’s support, raising questions about whether their actions were sanctioned by the state government.
“Is Kula implying that while all appointees are adults, some are more adult than others? If the governor did not endorse the GLOs’ actions, why were they warmly received and feted by his Chief of Staff? This contradiction undermines the governor’s claims of neutrality,” the APC stated.
The APC accused Governor Alia of focusing on imaginary battles instead of prioritizing unity and collaboration within the party. The statement urged the governor to abandon the divisive agenda purportedly designed to weaken Senator Akume’s influence and to channel his efforts towards governance and the fulfillment of his campaign promises to the people of Benue State.
“The party is concerned that Governor Alia’s administration is being derailed by a clique of cheerleaders within and outside government, whose sole aim is to sow discord and deny the APC a united front. This is not the time for distractions; Benue State deserves focused and effective leadership,” the statement read.
The APC described the calls for Akume’s removal as a wasteful endeavor, noting that the power to appoint or dismiss a high-ranking federal official like the SGF lies solely with President Tinubu. The party also reiterated that Tinubu’s confidence in Akume remains unshaken, citing the SGF’s exemplary service and dedication to national development.
The APC appealed to Governor Alia to reconcile with all party stakeholders and work closely with Senator Akume to advance the party’s agenda and deliver democratic dividends to the people of Benue State. The party stressed that a collaborative approach would yield better results than internal conflicts and public distractions.
“This is the APC’s time to flourish. Benue has never been in a better position to benefit from national political alignments. Governor Alia and Senator Akume must work together to maximize this opportunity for the good of our people,” the statement concluded.
The party also warned against the misuse of state resources to pursue personal vendettas or orchestrate campaigns against prominent APC leaders. It emphasized the importance of upholding party unity and discipline as the foundation for sustainable development in Benue State.
Political observers in the state have also weighed in on the controversy, describing the CPS’s statement as an unconvincing attempt to rewrite the narrative. Analysts argue that the ongoing friction between Governor Alia and Senator Akume underscores deeper issues within the APC’s leadership structure in Benue State.
Critics have urged both leaders to put aside their differences and focus on the shared goal of improving governance and enhancing the party’s standing in the state. They warn that continued infighting could weaken the APC’s prospects in future elections and erode public trust in its ability to deliver on its promises.
As the APC in Benue State continues to navigate these challenges, the party’s leadership has made it clear that unity and collaboration are non-negotiable for progress. Governor Alia and his team have been urged to cease any actions that may distract Senator Akume from his duties as SGF and to prioritize the collective interests of the APC and the people of Benue State.
The APC remains optimistic that with a renewed commitment to reconciliation and cooperation, the party can overcome its internal challenges and deliver on its mandate to the people.
