Governor Alia
The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has called on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, to halt any actions that might push Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State out of the party.
In a statement released on Sunday following a meeting in Abuja, the Forum expressed concerns about media attacks on Governor Alia by unnamed groups.
The statement, signed by the Forum’s chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, emphasized that Akume’s alleged actions against Alia could harm the APC’s prospects in the state during the 2027 election.
The Forum warned that the APC could not afford to lose Benue State or Governor Alia, praising his performance in office.
It added that if Alia were to defect to another party, like his predecessor Samuel Ortom, Akume should be held responsible.
“We cannot afford to lose Benue State, and we certainly cannot afford to lose Governor Hyacinth Alia, who has been doing well for the people.
The SGF and his supporters should not distract the governor from delivering the dividends of democracy,” the Forum stated.
In a response issued later on Sunday, SGF spokesperson, Terrence Kuanum, dismissed the Forum’s allegations as unfounded, accusing it of attempting to tarnish Akume’s reputation.
He strongly denied any involvement in media attacks on Alia, calling the claims baseless.
Kuanum also pointed out that the group, led by Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, had previously expressed satisfaction with Akume’s leadership.
During the 2023 third-quarter meeting of the North-Central APC in Jos, Zazzaga had commended the SGF for his leadership and direction, calling it purposeful and effective.
