Group Advocates Balanced Strategy in Resolving Benue APC Rift

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Concerned Benue Democrats (CBD), a civic organization in Benue State, has urged stakeholders to adopt a more even-handed approach in addressing the internal disagreements within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, especially concerning the perceived involvement of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume.

Addressing journalists in Makurdi, the group’s leader, Mr. Leonard Ikyem, made the appeal while reacting to recent remarks by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Progressive Governors’ Forum–Renewed Hope Ambassadors Strategic Summit held in Abuja.
During the summit, the Vice President called on Senator George Akume to reconcile with Governor Hyacinth Alia in the spirit of unity and progress for Benue State.
CBD observed that a similar appeal had been made by the Vice President in December 2025 during the wedding ceremony of Akume’s son in Makurdi. While commending his sustained commitment to fostering reconciliation, the group cautioned that directing appeals at a single individual might inadvertently suggest that responsibility for the crisis lies solely with that person.
The organization expressed appreciation for ongoing mediation efforts and encouraged the Vice President to facilitate direct engagement between both leaders to promote understanding and secure a durable settlement.
Providing background, CBD explained that the friction within the Benue APC can be traced to the early months of Governor Alia’s administration in May 2023. It noted that disagreements reportedly arose over party consultations during the inauguration of the Benue State House of Assembly leadership and subsequent appointments into the state executive council.
The group also cited controversies over party leadership in the state, including the removal of State Chairman, Comrade Austin Agada, along with members of the State Working Committee. According to CBD, public exchanges among supporters of rival factions have further heightened tensions within the party.
Nevertheless, CBD maintained that Senator Akume has consistently encouraged Benue residents to support the governor and pray for the success of his administration. It recalled public gatherings, such as the burial of the late Wantaregh Paul Iorpuu Unongo in 2024, where the SGF reportedly advocated cooperation and unity.
The group appealed to all stakeholders to embrace dialogue and respond positively to earlier peace appeals, including those made during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s visit to the state. It emphasized that cohesion within the party would enhance governance and speed up development initiatives across Benue.
Furthermore, CBD urged Governor Alia to thoughtfully prioritize issues relating to security and post-conflict recovery. While acknowledging the relevance of disarmament and rehabilitation programmes, the group suggested that citizens would prefer greater focus on rebuilding communities affected by violence and supporting the return of displaced persons to their ancestral homes.
CBD reaffirmed its dedication to backing both leaders in achieving reconciliation and unity within the APC and the state overall, expressing confidence that genuine dialogue and collaboration can deliver lasting peace for the people of Benue State.