Akume calls for unity in Benue APC amid grievances over primaries
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has said his foremost desire is to see a united All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State amid concerns over the conduct of recent party primaries.
Speaking with journalists at Makurdi Airport on Friday, Akume addressed complaints surrounding the outcome of the state, National Assembly and governorship primaries, which party members alleged were marred by irregularities.
His comments come amid reports that the camp of Governor Hyacinth Alia emerged dominant in the National Assembly and State Assembly primary elections conducted across the state.
Akume said he was aware of the grievances expressed by members of the party but maintained that issues arising from the process would attract consequences at the appropriate time.
The SGF said that as a leader and one of the founding figures of the APC, he remained committed to preserving unity within the party and upholding the principles of fairness on which it was established.
“What I want to say is this: I want the APC to be a united family. This was how we intended it to be.
“Those of us who were founding fathers of the party, we don’t want factions in our party,” he said.
Akume explained that his visit to Benue was aimed at mobilising support ahead of the presidential primary election scheduled for Saturday, insisting that the state remains firmly behind President Bola Tinubu.
He appealed to party supporters across the state to participate actively in the exercise and expressed confidence that the President would secure re election in 2027.
“I just want to appeal to our supporters in Benue State to remain calm and to come out en masse to vote in the primaries for our presidential candidate.
“Let them forget about what happened during the previous primary elections. This election, I believe, is going to be different.
“I believe there will be no diversion of materials, and this is very important. I have seen elections before. I have been in this game for a long time since 1998, and I am always very sure of what I say.
“I believe so much in our people. They are good, resilient and they know what is right, and if you are not careful, at the appropriate time they will show the consequences,” Akume said.