Akume-Alia Feud Threatens to Tear Benue APC Apart

Benue State, March 26, 2026 – The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State is teetering on the edge of a political crisis as a bitter feud between Governor Hyacinth Alia and Senator George Akume, former governor and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, escalates.
The conflict has split the party into rival factions. Governor Alia commands one camp, while Akume—also the APC leader in the North-Central zone—leads the other, setting up parallel executive structures from the ward level to the state working committee. Political observers warn that if unresolved, the party could end up with two governorship candidates during the primaries, potentially sparking prolonged court battles.
Sources reveal that Governor Alia is quietly exploring alliances with smaller parties, such as the Accord Party or the African Democratic Congress (ADC), as a backup plan should the primaries be legally contested. His recent meetings with opposition figures, including former PDP National Chairman Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, have fueled speculation about a possible defection—though his office insists these discussions are meant to recruit opposition leaders into the APC.
Meanwhile, Akume’s faction remains strategically active. Several governorship aspirants aligned with him attended a caucus meeting at the residence of former Governor Samuel Ortom, a PDP stalwart closely linked to Minister Nyesom Wike. Analysts say the gathering is a calculated move either to challenge Governor Alia directly or to secure political leverage should the APC primaries become contentious.
With the party fractured and the 2027 elections looming, Benue APC faces its toughest test yet that may likely lead to implosion.