The Benue State chapter of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has again, reaffirmed Senator George Akume’s position as the undisputed political leader of the ‘food basket state’, explaining that Akume’s influence transcends party lines.
IPAC stated this when they paid a solidarity visit to the SGF in Makurdi.
The inter-party group was led on the visit by Comrade Ogbe Simon Ocheme (State Chairman Zenith Labour Party ZLP).
IPAC commended SGF Akume’s leadership and reeled out his efforts in fostering political inclusivity and development in Benue state.
On the delegation was former Governor Samuel Ortom, who in his remarks, echoed IPAC’s sentiment, describing Akume as the unifying leader of Benue State.
Ortom also joined in affirming Akume’s leadership to drive collective progress for the state and therefore, emphasized the importance of harmony and unity of purpose in Benue’s political landscape.
“There are no permanent friends or enemies in politics, only permanent interests,” Ortom noted.
Ortom recalled how Comrade Austin Agada, the current APC Chairman in Benue State, was a strong critic of his administration during the 2023 campaigns but acknowledged the maturity shown by Agada in visiting him alongside IPAC members.
“Benue needs harmony and unity of purpose—unity for progress,” Ortom added.
During the visit, IPAC also expressed strong solidarity with Comrade Austin Agada, the APC Chairman in Benue State.
The council unequivocally condemned recent attempts to dissolve or suspend the Agada-led APC State Executive, describing such moves as detrimental to the state’s democratic framework.
“We recognize Comrade Agada as the legitimate APC Chairman in Benue State and stand firmly by his leadership. Any attempt to undermine this structure is an affront to democracy and the collective will of the people,” the council stated.
IPAC raised concerns over Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration’s alleged attempts to suppress political activities across the state. The council pointed to directives from local government chairmen and state appointees restricting gatherings, including thanksgiving services in churches, as undemocratic and counterproductive.
“These actions threaten the essence of democracy and freedom of association. We call on the SGF to intervene to ensure these rights are upheld in Benue,” IPAC added.
In a bid to promote cross-party collaboration, IPAC also engaged with opposition leaders in Benue State during their visit. The council emphasized that Akume’s leadership is pivotal for unity across all political parties in the state.
While addressing the council, Ortom praised IPAC’s proactive stance and encouraged them to continue supporting Akume’s leadership. He dismissed the activities of faceless groups calling for Akume’s removal as unpatriotic and urged all stakeholders to rally behind him for the greater good of Benue State.
“Akume is not just a leader of APC; he is the leader of Benue State, and his leadership is vital for our collective progress,” Ortom affirmed.
IPAC also used the platform to appeal for the restoration of welfare measures traditionally extended to political groups, which have been abandoned under the Alia-led administration. According to the council, such measures are critical for fostering collaboration and sustaining the contributions of political parties to the state’s development.
The IPAC visit signifies a collective commitment to strengthening democracy and fostering political unity in Benue. By rallying support for Akume’s leadership and advocating for inclusivity, the council aims to ensure stability and development in the state.
“As Benue faces significant challenges, IPAC’s engagement serves as a reminder of the importance of collaboration and effective leadership in navigating the state toward a brighter future,” the group said.
