In a move that may seal the fate of Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reported to have openly endorsed Senator George Akume, amidst the lingering intra-party crisis within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state.
National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu conveyed President Tinubu’s message at Senator Akume’s son’s wedding ceremony in Makurdi, Benue State, last weekend.
“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 heightened tensions within the APC in Benue State, where Governor Alia and Senator Akume have been locked in a protracted feud.
Political 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 on the developments, but sources indicate that 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 to the crisis, hoping that their leaders will prioritize progress over personal interests.
