Nongov Nation Stands With Akume
In a resounding declaration of loyalty and support, the Nongov Elders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have reaffirmed their unwavering solidarity with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Dr. George Akume.
Speaking on behalf of the Nongov APC Elders, notable leaders including Hon. Michael Iordye, mni, Prof. Philip Tachin, Dr. James Mbachiantim Manger, Esq., Hon. Agasha Kwaghga, and Hon. Kefas Aseshi (Bakasi), highlighted the unparalleled leadership and selfless service of Senator Akume. Over decades of political and administrative experience, Akume has left an indelible mark on the Nongov Nation, Benue State, and Nigeria at large.
A Legacy of Unmatched Leadership
The elders lauded Akume’s meteoric rise through the ranks of governance, tracing his career from Local Government Secretary, Local Government Sole Administrator, Principal Private Secretary to the Minister of Education, Director General, and Permanent Secretary of the Benue State Civil Service. These roles culminated in his emergence as a two-term Governor of Benue State (1999–2007), a three-term Senator, a Minister, and now the SGF.
Through these years, Akume’s benevolence has touched every corner of Benue State. His influence is credited with significant appointments and opportunities for the Nongov Nation, including Chief Michael Iordye, mni, as Head of Civil Service, Andy Uwouku as Permanent Secretary, and the elevation of Dr. Samuel Ortom to Governor. His unwavering resolve also ensured the emergence of Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Alia as Governor in 2023.
Divine Leadership and Commitment to the Tiv Nation
The elders likened Akume’s leadership journey to the biblical story of King David, noting divine intervention in his life. They emphasized that Akume’s leadership is not accidental but the result of divine preparation and endowment.
Recognizing Akume as the political leader of Nongov, the Tiv Nation, Benue, and North Central Nigeria, the elders issued a clarion call for unity among Tiv political actors. They urged the Tiv people to abandon the historically divisive “pull-him-down” syndrome and embrace collective progress under Akume’s leadership.
Standing Firm Against Detractors
The Nongov Elders pledged to resist any attempt to demean Akume’s person or his office. They highlighted that Akume’s leadership represents the Tiv Nation’s best chance for progress, stating that the Tiv and Benue people can only thrive by standing firmly behind him.
A Call for Unity
The elders called on other intermediate areas of the Tiv Nation to align with Senator Akume’s political agenda and recognize his divine mandate. They expressed confidence that Akume’s leadership will take the Tiv Nation and Benue to greater heights.
“As the political leader of Benue State and North Central Nigeria, we owe Akume our maximum loyalty and support,” the statement read. “Leadership is from God, and for now, the leadership of the Tiv Nation and Benue is on Akume by divine bestowal.”
Signed by Nongov APC Elders:
- Hon. Michael Iordye, mni
- Prof. Philip Tachin
- Dr. James Mbachiantim Manger, Esq.
- Hon. Agasha Kwaghga
- Hon. Kefas Aseshi (Bakasi)
The statement underscores the pivotal role of Senator Akume as a unifier and beacon of hope for the Tiv Nation, Benue, and Nigeria, reaffirming the Nongov Nation’s unflinching support for his leadership.
