Governor Hyacinth Alia and the APC political party in Benue State continue to make headlines. The differences between the governor and the party persist and suggest an increasingly deep divide.
According to the party, the main problem lies in the governor’s lack of respect and consideration towards the party. They claim that the governor does not consult party leaders and does not involve them in decision-making, which goes against normal practices.
The three Zonal Chairmanships of the APC in Benue State held a press conference to express their concerns. They pointed out that the current crisis is not only between the governor and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, but is actually a dispute between the party and the governor.
Tensions began last June, during the inauguration of the State Assembly, where the governor expressed his preference for a presidential candidate, without consulting party leaders. This led to a shameful altercation during the parliamentary session. Additionally, the governor appointed members of the opposition party to key positions, while ignoring appointments made by the APC.
The situation came to a head with the appointment of caretaker committees to administer local councils. The governor asked the party to nominate three candidates for each position, but in the end, the list of nominations did not match the candidates chosen by the party. This decision was experienced as a betrayal by members of the APC.
The zone presidents sought to resolve the issues through dialogue, but failed to find a satisfactory solution. Party leader George Akume expressed support for the governor but also stressed the importance of prayer and unity within the party.
It is evident that relations between Governor Hyacinth Alia and the APC in Benue State are increasingly strained. The party continues to demand respect and consideration from the governor, while the governor appears to act independently, without regard for the wishes of the party.
It remains to be seen how this political crisis will evolve and what the consequences will be for the party and the governor. One thing is certain, the APC Benue will not allow itself to be walked on and will continue to defend its interests and those of its members.