Benue APC Leaders Dump Gov Alia, Pledge Loyalty To Akume

Benue APC Leaders Dump Gov Alia, Pledge Loyalty To Akume
APC stakeholders endorsed President Tinubu’s bid for a second term.
SGF urged unity, accountability and development among Benue political leaders.

Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed confidence that Benue State will regain its political and economic prominence as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

Akume stated this while receiving prominent leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from the three senatorial districts of Benue State, including politicians previously aligned with Governor Hyacinth Alia.

EDITOR’S PICKS

EKO HOT BLOG reports that the delegation, led by former Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers’ Council (NSC), Emmanuel Jime, pledged loyalty to Akume’s leadership and endorsed President Bola Tinubu for a second term in office.

According to a statement issued by the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Akume thanked the stakeholders for their support and urged party members to remain united in the interest of Benue’s development.

The former Benue State governor stressed that unity within the APC was essential to maintaining political stability and achieving the aspirations of the people.

He assured the delegation that he would continue to prioritise the interests of Benue residents while working to restore the state’s relevance on the national stage.

Akume also called on party stakeholders to support President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, describing it as a programme aimed at driving sustainable development and improving the welfare of Nigerians.

The SGF described members of the delegation as experienced and respected political leaders, dismissing suggestions that they were “internally displaced politicians.”

According to him, their wealth of experience, capacity and intellectual contributions remain critical to the political and economic progress of Benue State.

Speaking on governance, Akume said the Tinubu administration had significantly increased financial allocations to states and local governments, adding that state governments should be accountable for how the funds are utilised.

“I know that 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 is not the fault of Mr President.

“He is doing what he is supposed to do for the country and for the states, and Benue is no exception.”

The SGF urged political leaders in Benue to focus on delivering meaningful development rather than blaming the Federal Government for challenges within the state.

Akume also declared that he held no resentment against any political leader or stakeholder in Benue, extending an olive branch to party members and calling for collective efforts toward securing Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.

Reflecting on his tenure as governor between 1999 and 2007, Akume said his administration attracted significant investments, expanded infrastructure and implemented programmes that laid the foundation for the state’s socio-economic growth.

The meeting ended with a unanimous endorsement of President Tinubu’s second-term ambition 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 Attorney General of the state, Joe Abaagu.

Earlier, Emmanuel Jime expressed concern over what he described as the erosion of democratic values in Benue State, urging greater collaboration among political stakeholders to reposition the state for progress.