Desist from sponsored attacks against SGF Sen Akume – JEMDA Cautions Afenifere, Arewa Patriots

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The kinsmen of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, under the auspices of Jemgbagh Development Association (JEMDA) in Benue state, has warned a faction of the Afenifere and Arewa Patriots to desist from sponsored attacks against the SGF.

JEMDA was reacting to the recent calls by both groups for the probe and resignation of the SGF over what they described as baseless allegations.

The group which expressed shock and disappointment at their statements noted that the malicious accusations, supposedly linked to one of the personal assistants to the SGF lacked concrete evidence and appear to be driven by partisan interests and a desire to undermine his integrity, demanded the groups to tender an unreserved apology for their reckless statements.

The President-General of JEMDA, Dr Vincent Amaaibai in a press statement, said “Both groups have woefully failed in their attempts to link the SGF to the ongoing investigation.

“The resumed attacks and call for the removal of the SGF are not new, Nigerians will recall that several of such calls have previously been made by faceless groups who are believed to be serving vested interests threatened by the growing profile of the SGF and the excellence with which he has carried his official conduct as SGF.”

Amaaibai noted that the faction of the Afenifere in their statement signed by factional publicity Secretary, Dr. Bayo Adenuga surprisingly based their call for the suspension of the SGF on what they termed “rumour mill mentioning Akume in the conservation” saying it was the highest level of rumour mongering and attempt to undermine the business of governance.

“The JEMDA vehemently rejects these unfounded claims, which seem to be part of a larger agenda to destabilize the government and tarnish the reputation of a dedicated public servant. Senator Akume’s commitment to transparency, accountability and zero-tolerance policy towards corruption is well-documented.

“The office of the SGF on the 17th of March, 2025 issued a statement clearly distancing the office and person of the SGF from the allegations. Consequently, both the office of the SGF and Sen. Dr. George Akume are not under investigation.

“Calls for his suspension to pave way for the investigation of another person are highly misplaced. They betray the principle of legal responsibility where adults are required to bear the consequences of their actions and omissions.

“The EFCC which is constitutionally empowered to investigate corruption cases in the country has not hinted at any interference from the office of the SGF, or difficulties in carrying out their investigations. It is therefore very strange that the groups could assume the mouthpieces of both the EFCC and their respective organizations.”

JEMDA said the timing of these allegations raises serious questions about the motivations behind them adding that “It is clear that these groups are attempting to blackmail and intimidate the SGF, undermining his efforts to serve the nation.

He declared total support of JEMDA for Senator Akume and affirmed that he is a man of impeccable character, dedicated to serving Nigeria with utmost integrity.

“JEMDA demands apology from these groups for their reckless and irresponsible statements, which have the potential to damage the reputation of a respected public servant.

“We also call on relevant authorities to investigate these groups’ motives and funding sources, ensuring they aren’t being used to destabilize the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the pursuits of their personal agendas.”

They further reaffirmed their support for the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his efforts to promote good governance and development in Nigeria. urging him not to allow himself to be distracted by the baseless allegations against his SGF which are clearly targeted at derailing his focus.

The JEMDA similarly urged Nigerians to see through these malicious attempts to undermine the SGF’s integrity and instead focus on his achievements and contributions to national development expressing confidence that Senator Akume will continue to serve Nigeria with dedication and integrity, despite the baseless attacks.