A political storm is brewing in Benue State as Governor Hyacinth Alia faces allegations of orchestrating a campaign to remove Senator George Akume from his position as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).
In a statement signed by Dennis Agema, President of the Network for Transparent Governance (NTG), Governor Alia was accused of secretly mobilizing ₦4 billion for what has been dubbed the “Akume Must Go” project.
The campaign allegedly seeks to undermine Senator Akume, a key figure in President Tinubu’s administration and the first Tiv son to hold the prestigious SGF position.
Denial and Counterattacks
The controversy erupted following a statement by Governor Alia’s press secretary, Kula Tersoo, denying the governor’s involvement in the alleged plot.
However, Agema claimed that Alia has been holding secret meetings with a former Benue State governor who reportedly harbors animosity toward Akume.
The pair is accused of attempting to dismantle Akume’s influence within the All Progressives Congress (APC) and restructure the party’s political framework in Benue State.
Agema further alleged that the former governor has been promised a senatorial ticket in exchange for his collaboration.
Accusations of Corruption and Nepotism
The NTG statement went beyond the SGF issue, painting a damning picture of Governor Alia’s leadership. Agema accused Alia of nepotism, neglecting Benue’s development, and awarding contracts to allies who funded his election campaign.
The statement also claimed Alia made questionable personal investments, including acquiring a ₦500 million property in Abuja and building a five-star hotel in Kigali, Rwanda, within months of assuming office.
The Role of Akume’s Supporters
Akume’s supporters, including Agema, have vowed to resist any attempt to discredit the SGF.
They argue that Alia’s alleged betrayal is particularly egregious, given Akume’s pivotal role in securing Alia’s gubernatorial victory and subsequent appointment.
A Brewing Political Crisis
The unfolding drama underscores the escalating power tussle within Benue’s political landscape.
Observers fear that the rivalry between Alia and Akume’s camps could deepen divisions within the APC and hinder governance in the state.
Governor Alia has yet to directly address the specific allegations, but the NTG insists the governor’s actions reflect a broader agenda of personal ambition at the expense of the people of Benue.
As tensions rise, the people of Benue watch closely, concerned about the impact of these allegations on the state’s governance and reputation.