The race for the 2027 governorship in Benue State is gradually gathering momentum, and one name is beginning to stand out within the All Progressives Congress (APC) Honorable Terwase Orbunde. In a bold and strategic declaration, the former Chief of Staff has identified Senator George Akume as the central figure who will shape the outcome of the party’s gubernatorial ticket in the state.
Speaking on Friday, April 10, 2026, during separate engagements with APC stakeholders in Makurdi, Guma, Gwer, and Gwer West, Orbunde emphasized the enduring political influence of Akume, who currently serves as Secretary to the Government of the Federation. According to him, Akume remains “the determinant factor” in deciding who emerges as governor under the APC platform in 2027.
The meetings, held at the residence of Chief Akange Audu in Makurdi and at Benysta Hotel in Aliade, provided Orbunde with an opportunity to reconnect with grassroots leaders and party faithful. It was also a moment for him to reaffirm his loyalty to Akume, whom he described as his longstanding political leader.
Orbunde traced his political journey back to the build-up to the 1999 general elections, when he served as Acting Director General of Akume’s successful governorship campaign. He acknowledged that while political differences had arisen over the years as is common in the dynamic terrain of Nigerian politics he has since 2022 returned fully to Akume’s political fold.
“I have submitted myself to his leadership,” Orbunde stated, underscoring his commitment to unity and party cohesion as he pursues his 2027 ambition.
Beyond political alliances, the APC aspirant outlined a vision anchored on security, good governance, and sustainable development. He pledged that, if elected governor, his administration would prioritize the protection of lives and property, uphold the rule of law, and invest heavily in education, science, and technology as drivers of economic growth.
Orbunde also emphasized the need for a fair reward system in governance, noting that adherence to global best practices is essential for meaningful development in Benue State.
His message appeared to resonate strongly with party stakeholders across the visited local government areas. Prominent figures including Alhaji Jibril Mamadu, Dr. Mathew Mnyam, Dr. (Mrs.) Margaret Bija, Chief Akange Audu, and Chief Mike Iordye, representing Makurdi and Guma, expressed their support. Similarly, stakeholders from Gwer and Gwer West—among them John Akange, Evarestus Gema, Mrs. Erdoo Chewe, and retired ACG Peter Pevigo—pledged their backing for Orbunde’s ambition.
The aspirant was accompanied by a notable delegation of political associates, including Paul Agu, Orjiir Gbande, Abo Uta, Godwin Alumunku, Moses Buter, Gideon Nyitse, Stephen Gber, and Dan Orngu signaling a growing coalition within the party.
As the countdown to 2027 begins, Orbunde’s strategy appears clear: consolidate grassroots support while aligning firmly with one of Benue’s most influential political figures. Whether this approach will secure him the APC ticket remains to be seen, but his campaign has undoubtedly entered the spotlight with a message of loyalty, structure, and forward-looking governance.
