Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has called for unity among members of the All Progressives Congress in Benue State ahead of Saturday’s presidential primary, stressing that internal cohesion remains vital to the party’s electoral success.
Akume made the appeal on Friday while speaking with journalists shortly after arriving at the Makurdi Airport, where he was received by a large crowd of party supporters and stakeholders.
The SGF urged members of the party to place the collective interest of the APC above personal ambitions and political differences, particularly in the aftermath of the party’s primaries conducted earlier in the week.
He appealed to aggrieved aspirants and their supporters to embrace reconciliation and dialogue, warning that lingering disagreements could weaken the structure of the party in the state ahead of future elections.
“The presidential primaries are taking place tomorrow (Saturday). We’re here to mobilise support for our dear president. He’s doing very well,” Akume said.
According to him, the President enjoys widespread support in Benue State due to his performance, patriotism and inclusive style of governance.
“In democracy, you must always have some opposing voices, but the truth is that his work is remarkable. His work has been approved by most Nigerians and we are very sure come tomorrow our people are going to vote massively for Mr President,” he stated.
The former Benue State governor also expressed concern over reports alleging diversion of electoral materials during the party’s recent primaries in the state, describing the development as disturbing and capable of undermining confidence in the party’s internal democratic process.
Although he noted that he was not physically present during the elections, Akume said he had received several reports concerning irregularities.
“I was not here during the last election. I received so many reports about diversion of materials among other things, but I wasn’t here so I don’t want to comment so much about that,” he said.
He, however, reiterated his desire for a united APC in Benue State, noting that the founding fathers of the party did not envisage factions within its ranks.
“Those of us who were the founding fathers of the party, we don’t want factions in our party. We’re very sure that come 2027, Mr President will get back to the Villa,” he added.
Akume called on party officials and security agencies to investigate allegations surrounding the diversion of materials and ensure that anyone found culpable is held accountable.
He also appealed to supporters to remain peaceful and participate actively in the presidential primary election.
