President Bola Tinubu has pledged to intervene in the ongoing political rift between Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia.
Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at a wedding reception in Makurdi on Sunday, Tinubu emphasized that the disagreement between the two political figures could have far-reaching consequences for Benue State and the broader North Central region.
The president described Akume as Nigeria’s longest-serving public servant in recent times, citing his extensive career spanning roles as director of protocol, permanent secretary, two-term governor, three-term senator, Senate minority leader, minister, and now SGF. Tinubu stressed that Akume’s contributions to Nigerian politics warranted respect and that the discord should not be allowed to escalate.
“Benue is too important for us to allow this discord to continue,” Shettima said on behalf of the president. “What unites us is greater than what divides us. If this relationship deteriorates, the people of Benue, the North Central, and Nigeria as a whole will bear the consequences.”
Tinubu expressed his sense of moral duty to resolve the matter, noting that stability in Benue affects the entire region. He also thanked Benue residents for their support during the 2023 presidential election, which he characterized as highly divisive.
At the event, Akume thanked the president for attending his son Samuel’s wedding reception and acknowledged Governor Alia’s presence despite his demanding schedule. The governor, in turn, congratulated the newlyweds and commended them for bringing honor to their families and the state.
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