Benue Congresses: Governor Alia, Akume Camps Produce Parallel APC LG Excos

Rival camps of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State controlled by Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, have produced parallel local government party excos.

This followed the parallel APC Local Government Congresses held in the State at the weekend.

The exercise, which took place on Saturday, was conducted in the 23 local government areas of Benue state, with each camp claiming to be authentic the faction.

Recall that the camps loyal to the two APC leaders in the state last Wednesday held separate ward congresses that produced parallel excos.

However, our correspondent gathered that the fight for the soul of Benue State APC now moves to President Bola Tinubu and the party’s national chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, to decide.

Supporters of the two APC camps in the state told LEADERSHIP that the final decision on the Benue congresses and parallel exco lists will be taken by President Tinubu and the party’s national chairman, Prof Yilwatda.

Commenting on the local government congresses, APC State Organising Secretary, James Ornguga, loyal to Governor Alia, stated that any congress being conducted in Benue State without the approval and backing of party’s national working committee (NWC) was an exercise in futility and waste of time, nothing that their own congress was “equally peaceful and credible.”

On his part, APC State Publicity Secretary, Dan-Morgan Ihomun, loyal to Akume, in a statement at the weekend, said the non- elective congresses were orderly, transparent and peaceful. “The All Progressives Congress (APC), Benue State Chapter, hereby expresses its appreciation to party faithful across the 23 Local Government Areas for the impressive turnout recorded during the Local Government Congresses held on Saturday 21st February, 2026”

“The conduct of the Non-elective Congresses across the state was orderly, peaceful, and transparent, reflecting the high level of discipline, unity, and organizational capacity within the party. The massive participation of members underscores their continued confidence in the leadership and ideals of the APC in Benue State.”

The statement added, “We congratulate all existing Local Government Party Executives who were duly affirmed by their respective Congresses to continue in office for another four-year tenure.

“This reaffirmation represents a clear endorsement of your stewardship and the trust reposed in you by party members. As you assume this renewed mandate, you are encouraged to remain inclusive, transparent, and committed to strengthening the party’s structures at the grassroots in line with the constitution and guiding principles of our great party.

“The party extends profound appreciation to Sen. Dr George Akume, CON, Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Leader of the APC in Benue State and the North Central Zone, for his consistent leadership, guidance, and stabilizing role. His experience and commitment continue to provide direction and cohesion for the party in the state.”