*Pass Vote of Confidence, Dismiss ADC as Political Misadventure
ABUJA – A delegation of Benue South elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), based in Abuja, has thrown its weight behind the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Dr. George Akume, affirming full support for the President’s 2027 re-election bid and applauding ongoing reforms aimed at reviving the Nigerian economy and restoring security across volatile regions, including Benue State.
Led by Chief (Dr.) Silva E. Ameh, FCNA, FNIM, MON, former Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Ohodo, Enugu State, the delegation praised the courage of President Tinubu in taking bold economic decisions long evaded by his predecessors, especially the removal of fuel subsidy and the liberalization of the foreign exchange market. The group described the reforms as essential, noting that although their full benefits are yet to fully materialize, their latent impact on national economic recovery is already visible in key fiscal indices and renewed global investor confidence.
The elders also acknowledged the President’s recent visit to Benue State and his marching directive to security agencies to end the genocidal killings ravaging communities, particularly the most recent massacre in Yelwata, Guma LGA, as well as renewed attacks in Agatu, Apa, Ukum, Kwande, Otukpo, Gower West and parts of Makurdi. According to them, President Tinubu’s presence in the state and the immediate constitution of a security committee reflect a rare presidential sensitivity to the plight of Benue people.
While commending the President, the group hailed Senator Akume for playing a pivotal role in harmonizing federal and local responses to the Benue crisis, describing him as a bridge between the aspirations of the people and the conscience of the federal government.
The group observed a minute of silence in honour of the victims of recent attacks, and reiterated that while the security situation remains dire, only collective responsibility and federal-state synergy can lead to lasting peace. They also urged traditional institutions and communities to provide actionable intelligence and logistics support to security agencies on the ground.
Turning to party affairs, the forum passed a resounding vote of confidence in Comrade Austin Agada, the APC State Chairman in Benue, describing him as a loyal, dependable, and highly strategic party leader whose influence in the last general election was instrumental to APC’s performance in Benue State. The elders praised his steady coordination of the party structure across the State, adding that under the joint leadership of Akume and Agada, the APC remains the dominant political force in Benue.
Dismissing the wave of defections to the African Democratic Congress (ADC), the elders described the movement as a “coalition of political jokers” and a mere distraction from the main political terrain. They said the ADC is being driven by personal ambitions and political discontent, not ideology or structure. “Those who think they can dislodge APC in Benue without structure or a unifying vision are playing to the gallery,” one leader, Comrade Abba Yaro said. “You don’t win elections with noise. You win with tested leaders, organization, and results.”
Chief Ameh expressed appreciation to the President for appointing credible sons and daughters of Benue to key positions, urging more political inclusiveness as the administration consolidates its economic and security gains. He called on all Benue stakeholders to rally around the SGF, Comrade Agada, and other party leaders as the party prepares for a broader engagement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Receiving the delegation, Senator George Akume expressed profound appreciation for the visit, describing it as a humbling show of solidarity. He extolled the character, patriotism, and institutional memory of Chief Silva Ameh, whom he said had been a friend and confidant for over 45 years, noting that their bond transcends politics and party affiliation.
The SGF assured the delegation of President Tinubu’s unrelenting commitment to rebuilding the nation, emphasizing that while the road to recovery may be tough, “Nigeria is on the path to greatness.” He urged patience, national unity, and continued grassroots engagement to consolidate the achievements recorded thus far under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Also in attendance were Amb. Matthew Adole, Hon. David Idoko (former House of Representatives member for Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo), Dr. Ekoja Christy, Comrade Abba Yaro, Hon. Sylvester Onoja, Architect Anthony Obekpa, Hon. Agada Auchi, State Assembly Member from Ogbadibo, Hon. Idoko Onah Francis, Mr. Emma Adagboyi, Hon. Bernard Ochapa, Hon. Susan Abu, Barr. Napoleon Otache (Chairman-elect, Agatu LGA), and Hon. Elvis Ejeh (Chairman-elect, Apa LGA), among others. Chief Audu Ogbeh, Hon. Agbo Ogah and others sent apologies for their absence but aligned fully with the forum’s resolutions.
As the gathering ended with prayers for peace and progress in Benue, the elders resolved to sustain strategic consultations, defend party discipline, and maintain grassroots mobilization, affirming that the APC remains the vehicle of development and the winning side in Benue and across Nigeria.
