Benue APC crisis deepens as Alia, Akume factions hold parallel congresses
Naija News • 2h ago
**Benue APC Crisis Escalates as Parallel Congresses Produce Parallel Executives**
The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) is facing an unprecedented crisis, as two rival factions aligned with Governor Hyacinth Alia and the SGF, George Akume, have produced parallel executive committees after separate state congresses.
In a dramatic turn of events, the Governor Alia-backed faction held its congress at the IBB Square in Makurdi, where Benjamin Omale was re-elected as state chairperson. The Akume-aligned faction, on the other hand, gathered at a different venue and affirmed the Austin Agada-led executive committee for another four-year term.
While Governor Alia hailed the Alia faction's congress as peaceful and inclusive, the Akume faction described its exercise as orderly and in line with party procedures. Prominent loyalists of Mr. Akume, including former senator Jack Tilley-Gyado and current senator Titus Zam, attended the parallel congress and pledged loyalty to President Bola Tinubu and their party leader.
The crisis within APC in Benue State has been a recurring theme, with disputes over party structure and control leading to competing claims to legitimacy. The fact that two parallel congresses held on the same day, with both sides declaring their exercises peaceful and in compliance with party guidelines, has raised questions about the party's internal dynamics and the future of the state chapter.
Despite the tension, Governor Alia urged party members to remain united and continue to support President Tinubu's policies and leadership. However, the crisis has exposed deep divisions within the party, and it remains to be seen how this will play out in the coming days and weeks.
As the Benue APC crisis deepens, one thing is certain: the party's internal struggles are set to continue, with far-reaching implications for the state's politics and governance. With both factions vying for control, it is uncertain which direction the party will take, but one thing is clear - the APC in Benue State is at a crossroads, and the future is uncertain.