Akume Loyalists Meet As Ortom, Aondoakaa Plot To Oust Gov Alia

The crisis rocking the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has deepened as loyalists of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, move to block the re-election of Governor Hyacinth Alia.

The group has vowed to wrest power from the governor in 2027, describing their move as necessary to “save the state and its people.”

A former Attorney-General of the Federation, Michael Aondoakaa, was seen in a viral video criticising Governor Alia’s leadership style.

Aondoakaa spoke at a Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) caucus meeting held at the residence of former governor, Samuel Ortom, in Makurdi.

He said the governor had failed to meet expectations, adding that the decision to form a political alliance with the PDP was aimed at unseating him.

“They said they have money but the money belongs to all of us. God will not allow them to use the money to defeat us,” Aondoakaa said.

Aondoakaa disclosed that the alliance with the PDP had the backing of Senator Akume, despite his absence at the meeting due to official duties in Abuja.

“Senator George Akume is busy… ensuring that the foundation of the strategic partnership produces results,” he said.

Other APC chieftains, including Mathias Byuan, Pius Akutah, and Sebastian Hon, also attended the meeting and pledged loyalty to Akume and Ortom.

Findings indicate that the rift is linked to control of the party structure ahead of the 2027 elections.

According to The Sun, the Akume faction is reportedly dissatisfied that control of the APC structure in the state has shifted to Governor Alia, raising fears about ticket allocation for future elections.

The crisis had earlier manifested in parallel congresses that produced rival chairmen – Austin Agada and Benjamin Omale.

Efforts to reconcile both camps appear to have stalled despite intervention by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who had urged unity within the party.

Political observers expressed surprise that Akume loyalists attended a PDP caucus meeting despite the Vice President’s call for peace.

Reacting, Governor Alia’s spokesperson, Tersoo Kula, said the governor remained unbothered.

“It is the wish of the governor that APC works as a family… He believes the masses are with him,” Kula said.

He described critics within the party as “disgruntled elements” attempting to derail the administration.

Meanwhile, spokesperson of the Akume camp, Daniel Ihomun, confirmed attendance at the PDP meeting but said it was aimed at mobilising support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu ahead of 2027.

He added that APC members in the state remained open to collaboration with groups supporting Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.

However, the statement was silent on support for Governor Alia’s re-election, further fuelling speculation about deepening divisions within the party.