The crisis that has troubled the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) appears to have come to an end, following a reconciliation between Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The two leaders, who had been at the centre of a long-running political disagreement, met over the weekend in Makurdi, where they agreed to put aside their differences and work together for the unity of the party in the state.
Sources said the peace move was initiated at the instance of President Bola Tinubu, who has been working behind the scenes to resolve internal disputes within the ruling party across the country.
The meeting was held at the Banquet Hall of the Benue State Government House and brought together key stakeholders in the state. Among those present were political leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures, all of whom played a role in encouraging both sides to embrace peace.
The crisis between Alia and Akume had created tension within the APC in Benue State over the past months. The disagreement reportedly affected party activities and raised concerns about the party’s strength ahead of future elections.
Governor Alia, who came into office in 2023, is seen by many as a fresh face in politics, while Akume, a former governor of the state and current SGF, remains one of the most influential political figures in Benue.
Their differences had divided party members into factions, with supporters on both sides expressing concerns about the future of the APC in the state.
However, speaking to journalists after the reconciliation meeting, Governor Alia said both leaders had agreed to move forward in the interest of the party and the people of Benue State.
He described the meeting as successful and expressed optimism that the party would now be more united and focused.
According to him, one of the major resolutions reached was the commitment of party members to support his re-election bid in the 2027 general elections.
He also disclosed that all National Assembly members elected on the APC platform from Benue State are expected to seek and secure re-election.
While details of the agreement were not fully made public, participants at the meeting reportedly emphasised the need for unity, cooperation, and respect among party leaders.
Internal conflicts have often weakened political parties in Nigeria, sometimes leading to defections, parallel structures, and poor performance during elections.
In Benue State, the APC has faced strong competition from opposition parties in the past, making unity within the party an important factor for future success.
The involvement of President Tinubu in the reconciliation process highlights the importance the party leadership places on resolving internal disputes early.
Since assuming office, Tinubu has called on party members across the country to prioritise unity and avoid actions that could divide the APC.
For many stakeholders in Benue, the reconciliation is seen as a positive development that could bring stability to the state’s political environment.
Traditional rulers and religious leaders who attended the meeting also urged both leaders to honour their agreement and avoid actions that could reignite tensions.
They stressed the importance of peace not only within the party but also across the state, noting that political conflicts can sometimes affect governance and development.
Residents of the state have also expressed hope that the resolution of the crisis will allow the government to focus more on addressing key issues such as security, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Benue State, known as the “Food Basket of the Nation,” has faced challenges in recent years, including clashes between farmers and herders, which have affected agricultural production and livelihoods.
As the 2027 elections approach, the reconciliation between Alia and Akume is expected to play a significant role in shaping the political landscape in Benue State.
For now, party members and supporters are watching closely to see whether the renewed unity will be sustained.
The coming months will likely test the strength of the agreement, as both leaders work together to rebuild trust and strengthen the APC in the state.