The long-running crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has drawn fresh intervention from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has directed immediate resolution between Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Sen. George Akume and Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia.
In a formal invitation dated April 22, 2026, Sen. Akume, writing in his capacity as SGF, summoned Governor Alia and key stakeholders to an urgent meeting aimed at resolving the crises afflicting the APC Benue State Chapter. The letter, referenced SGF/22/S.8 and addressed to the Governor at Government House, Makurdi, cited the attention of President Tinubu and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces on the need for party unity ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The original meeting was scheduled for Thursday, April 30, 2026, at 12 noon at the New Banquet Hall in Makurdi. It was expected to bring together 10 elders/stakeholders from each side, members of the Benue State House of Assembly, National Assembly members from the state, federal government appointees, and other critical figures. Attendance was strictly by invitation.
However, following President Tinubu’s fresh directive for swift resolution without further delay, the meeting has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 3, 2026, still in Benue State. Early indications from sources close to the process suggest a possible path to reconciliation, with Governor Alia likely securing a return ticket for the 2027 governorship election while SGF Akume is positioned to nominate most National Assembly candidates.
The directive underscores the Presidency’s determination to heal rifts within the ruling party in Benue, where parallel structures and factional tensions have persisted for years. President Tinubu had previously appealed directly for unity between the two leaders during engagements in the state and through the Progressive Governors Forum.
This latest push comes as the APC prepares for primaries and the 2027 polls, with party leaders keen to prevent further defections and consolidate support in the North Central state. The rescheduled meeting is now viewed as a make-or-break opportunity for stakeholders to align on structural adjustments, including potential changes in the State Executive Council and key appointments.
Both camps have been urged to prioritize the interest of the party and the state’s development over personal differences.
