Thirteen political parties in Benue State have endorsed the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and former governor, Sen. George Akume, as the state’s political leader.
The endorsement was announced at a meeting of the parties on February 3, 2025, coinciding with the 49th anniversary of Benue State’s creation.
In a statement, the coalition of parties praised Akume’s leadership and contributions to the development of Benue and Nigeria.
The resolution was endorsed by representatives of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Adaji; Zenith Labour Party (ZLP), Comrade Simon O. Ogbe; All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), Ogli Joseph Inalegwu; National Rescue Movement (NRM), Hon. Tor Aondofa Paul; BOOT Party, Emmanuel Nyianshima; and Action Peoples Party (APP), Dr. Salifu Samuel.
Others are Allied Peoples Movement (APM), Hon. Pedro John Eyo; African Democratic Congress (ADC), Hon. Orbunde Celestine; Action Alliance (AA), Benedict U. Ejembi; Young Progressives Party (YPP), Hon. Confidence Onuah; Accord Party (AP), Bishop Benson Ijachi; People’s Redemption Party (PRP), George Ogbogo; and All Progressives Congress (APC), Comrade Austin Agada.
They highlighted his political experience as a two-term governor, three-term senator, opposition leader, Minister, and now SGF, describing his appointment as a major milestone for the State and the North Central region.
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The parties condemned what they termed politically motivated attempts to undermine Akume’s integrity, alleging that certain individuals and groups were working against his influence.
They called on the alleged sponsors of such efforts to reveal themselves, insisting that the people of Benue deserve to know who is acting against their interests.
“We align with the position of opposition leader and former Governor Chief Samuel Ortom, who has acknowledged Senator George Akume as the undisputed political leader of Benue State and North Central Nigeria.
“We strongly condemn the activities of groups and individuals attempting to undermine the integrity of the SGF, His Excellency Senator Dr. George Akume. These politically motivated attempts are misguided and bound to fail.
“We are fully aware that these elements operate under the sponsorship of powerful figures hiding in the shadows. We call on these sponsors to step forward and reveal themselves, so the public can identify those working against the interests of the State,” the coalition stressed.
The coalition urged citizens to recognise the strategic benefits of Akume’s position as SGF, emphasising that it presents vast empowerment opportunities for North Central Nigeria.
They called on state governments in the region to collaborate with him to enhance governance and drive regional development.
Expressing concern over political tensions in Benue, the parties strongly criticised alleged restrictions on political gatherings and disruptions of thanksgiving services involving public office holders.
They claimed these actions were being carried out by local government chairmen and state appointees under the directive of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The coalition described such restrictions as undemocratic and a violation of fundamental rights, calling for an immediate end to the practice.