**Benue APC Crisis Deepens as Dual Ward Structures Emerge** In a shocking turn of events, the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State is grappling with one of its most severe internal crises. The crisis, which has been simmering for months, has finally boiled over, producing dual ward structures in the state's 23 local government areas. This development poses a significant threat to the party's cohesion ahead of the 2027 elections. At the heart of the crisis are two factions: one loyal to Governor Hyacinth Alia and the other to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume. Each faction claims to have conducted legitimate ward congresses, with the Alia-led faction declaring that new ward executives emerged through a consensus-based election process. The Akume-aligned camp, on the other hand, announced that existing ward executives were reaffirmed for another four-year term. Analysts warn that this parallel exercise could lead to confusion among party members, complicate delegate selection, and undermine the party's grassroots mobilization efforts. The crisis has its roots in disagreements over key appointments early in Governor Alia's administration, including the appointment of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG) and leadership in the State House of Assembly. The feud escalated over the removal of Comrade Austin Agada from the party secretariat, the suspension of 13 lawmakers aligned with Akume, and restrictions on political activities in the state. Despite two favorable court rulings for the SGF faction, the crisis persists, with each faction refusing to recognize the other's structures. The implications of this crisis are far-reaching, with some analysts predicting that it could influence candidate selection and electoral outcomes for the 2027 elections. Reconciliation will require intervention at the national level, but for now, the Benue APC is stuck in a quagmire of factionalism and division. As the party navigates this treacherous terrain, one thing is clear: the future of the APC in Benue State hangs in the balance. Will the party be able to overcome its internal differences and present a united front in the 2027 elections, or will the dual ward structures spell doom for the party's chances of success? Only time will tell.