A faction of influential All Progressives Congress members in Benue State, previously aligned with Governor Hyacinth Alia, has formally shifted its support to Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume. This group, representing all three senatorial districts and headed by former Nigerian Shippers Council executive Emmanuel Jime, met with Akume in Abuja to declare their stance as the 2027 election cycle approaches.
Key figures in attendance included Douglas Pepe (SAN), Prof. Cephas Tushima, and various former officials. In a statement released by Yomi Odunuga, the SGF’s media adviser, Akume thanked the group for their allegiance. He stressed that unity among party members is essential for political stability and meeting public expectations. Akume also reaffirmed his commitment to Benue’s economic recovery, noting that the current federal administration is providing significant financial resources to states.
Addressing the gathering, Akume dismissed claims that his supporters were sidelined, instead highlighting their intellectual and political capacity. He called for solidarity to support President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, distancing himself from past political grievances. The event concluded with a formal endorsement of President Tinubu for a second term and an expression of full confidence in Akume’s leadership, led by former Deputy Speaker Dan Ali and former Attorney General Joe Abaagu.
Emmanuel Jime voiced concerns regarding the perceived decline of democratic principles in Benue. He urged Akume to use his influence to restore fairness, inclusivity, and internal party democracy within the Benue APC chapter, aiming to rebuild trust among the grassroots members.
