APC Spokesman Faults Akume’s Role in Benue Politics, Reaffirms Alia as Party Leader in State
By Onwe Wisdom, Pan Afric Reporters
The National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Felix Morka has declared that any attempt to undermine the authority of Hyacinth Alia, the Governor of Benue State within the party’s structure is unacceptable, describing the recent intervention by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume in the state’s party affairs as “a monumental disgrace.”
Morka made the remarks during an interview on Arise News on Thursday morning while responding to a question from journalist Rufai Oseni regarding the APC’s position on controversies surrounding the party’s recent State Congress in Benue.
According to the APC spokesman, both Akume and Alia remain respected and influential leaders in the party, but he stressed that the governor holds the constitutionally recognized position as the leader of the party in the state.
“Governor Alia is the constitutional leader of the party in Benue and enjoys the support of the grassroots,” Morka said, adding that attempts by any national figure to override the governor’s authority within the state structure would not only be disrespectful but counterproductive to party unity.
The controversy stems from reports that Akume, a former governor of Benue and currently SGF under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,travelled from Abuja to Benue to intervene in the internal dynamics of the party during the APC’s state congress process.
Political observers say the move heightened tensions within the Benue chapter of the ruling party, where rival camps loyal to the governor and the SGF have reportedly been locked in a struggle over party structures ahead of future political contests.
Addressing the issue, Morka disclosed that the Vice President, Kashim Shettima had advised Akume to reconcile with Governor Alia and work toward unity within the party in the state.
He emphasized that the party’s constitution clearly outlines the roles of national officers and state leaders, noting that the framework does not empower federal office holders to dominate state party leadership.
“The APC remains committed to respecting defined responsibilities within the party hierarchy. Cooperation between leaders at all levels is essential for strengthening the party and ensuring good governance,” he said.
The APC leadership, according to Morka, is determined to maintain discipline and respect for internal structures as it prepares to consolidate its political strength ahead of future elections.
The statement highlighting Morka’s remarks was circulated by Comrade C.C. Abur on behalf of the Coalition of Social Media Activists and Advocates for Good Governance and Accountability, which urged party leaders to prioritize unity and respect constitutional processes within the party.
The development comes amid ongoing efforts by the APC national leadership to stabilize internal party structures across several states following recent congresses, with Benue emerging as one of the states where leadership rivalry has drawn national attention.
