Northern Students Demand Resolution Of Alia, Akume Dispute

The leaderships of the North Central Coordination of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) and the Coalition of North Central Student Leaders ha demanded an end to the feud between Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State, and Senator George Akume, the secretary to the government of the federation (SGF).

The students made the call at a news conference in Abuja, expressing concerns about the growing rift between the two leaders.

Comrade Gundu Mimidoo Joy, public relations officer at NANS Headquarters; Comrade Friday Egga, coordinator at NANS Zone C (North Central); and Comrade Muhammad Usman, national president of the National Association of North Central Indigenous Students, jointly signed the news conference text.

While declaring solidarity with the SGF, the students urged Governor Hyacinth Alia to call to order those within his circle who are antagonising and scheming against Senator Akume and his office.

They condemned recent calls for the removal of the SGF, stating that these actions were not only a direct affront to the dignity of North Central people but also an attack on the region’s collective aspirations.

“Senator Akume, a true patriot, statesman, and advocate for youth and student development, has consistently displayed magnanimity and good faith, even in the face of ingratitude.

“We, the students of the North Central region, representing over 10 million Nigerian students, unequivocally condemn this behaviour as unbecoming of a people who should be proud that such an exalted position is held by someone from North Central.

“It is expected that, rather than engaging in this fight and displaying disregard for necessary synergy, the people of goodwill from North Central should rally behind the SGF in the interest of the region so that he can attract the benefits of this position to the geopolitical area.

“The SGF is not just a political leader; he is a National Patron of NANS, a pillar of support to the Nigerian student community, and a symbol of progress for the North Central region. Therefore, any attempt to undermine his office or person is a direct attack on our collective future and aspirations.

“The student community across the North Central region stands firmly behind his excellency, Senator Dr George Akume, in recognition of his selfless service and unwavering commitment to youth and student development.

“We wish to advise Governor Hyacinth Alia to call to order those within his circle who are currently antagonising and scheming against Senator Akume and his office.

“It is imperative that he immediately distances himself from those affiliated with him whose actions he cannot deny knowledge of. In the interest of the state and North Central, they must desist from this unpatriotic venture, as these actions are divisive and detrimental to the unity and progress of the North Central region.

“We urge Governor Alia to prioritise the welfare and development of Benue State and its students rather than engaging in unnecessary political hostilities. The North Central region deserves leaders who foster unity, development, and progress,” the students stated.