President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has publicly endorsed Senator George Akume, amidst the ongoing intra-party crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State. This move may seal the fate of Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia .
At Senator Akume’s son’s wedding ceremony in Makurdi, Benue State, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu conveyed President Tinubu’s message, praising Akume’s loyalty and hard work. “George Akume has been my friend and colleague since we became governors in 1999,” Ribadu quoted President Tinubu as saying. “He is a loyal and hardworking man. We are with George Akume. Benue people are with Senator George Akume. The church is with Senator George Akume. Akume is the number one public servant in Nigeria.”
This endorsement has escalated tensions within the APC in Benue State, where Governor Alia and Senator Akume have been embroiled in a protracted feud. Analysts believe President Tinubu’s backing of Senator Akume may force Governor Alia to reconsider his stance or risk facing party sanctions.
Governor Alia’s options are limited,” said Prof. Terhemba Shija, an Academic Don at Nassarawa State University, Keffi. “He must reconcile with Senator Akume or explore alternative alliances. The president’s endorsement has significantly weakened Governor Alia’s position.”.
The APC’s national leadership has yet to comment, but sources indicate Governor Alia may face disciplinary action if he fails to reconcile with Senator Akume. As the APC struggles to maintain unity in Benue State, residents await a resolution, hoping leaders prioritize progress over personal interests.
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