A group of prominent All Progressives Congress leaders in Benue State, including former political allies of Governor Hyacinth Alia, has declared support for the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, in what appears to signal fresh realignments within the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The APC chieftains, drawn from the state’s three senatorial districts, made the declaration during a visit to Akume in Abuja.
The delegation was led by a former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Emmanuel Jime, and included Douglas Pepe (SAN), Prof. Cephas Tushima, Engr. Peter Ashiekaa, Prof. Usar, Beetseh, Joy Liga, Chief Nelson Alapa, Chief Patrick Idoko, Hon. David Igbosa, Comrade Austin Agbada and Dr. Msoo Igbo, among others.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the SGF’s Special Adviser on Media, Yomi Odunuga, Akume thanked the delegation for its support and urged party stakeholders to remain united in the interest of Benue State.
He stressed that unity within the APC was crucial to sustaining political stability and advancing the state’s development.
Akume assured the delegation that he would continue to prioritise the interests of Benue people while working to restore the state’s economic and political relevance.
He also urged continued support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying the Renewed Hope Agenda was designed to promote sustainable development and improve the welfare of Nigerians.
The SGF described members of the delegation as experienced politicians whose contributions remained valuable to the state’s political development.
He said, “The President, in a most unprecedented manner, has pushed a lot of money to the states and the local governments. All the tiers of government have access to the Federation Account. If we can’t develop our state, it’s not Mr. President’s fault.”
Akume added that his administration as governor laid the foundation for Benue’s development and expressed optimism that the state would regain its former status.
The meeting also witnessed the endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term in office and a vote of confidence in Akume’s leadership.
The motion was moved by former Deputy Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Dan Ali, and seconded by former state Attorney General, Joe Abaagu.
Earlier, Jime alleged that democratic principles within the Benue APC had deteriorated and urged Akume to intervene in repositioning the party.
He appealed to the SGF to promote internal democracy, fairness and inclusiveness, saying the measures were necessary to rebuild confidence among party members.
Jime also recalled his experience during the 2003 general elections when he contested for the House of Representatives while Akume was governor, describing the SGF as a leader who demonstrated empathy and fairness.
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