Makurdi: The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue has announced the resolution of its prolonged internal crisis following a high-level reconciliation meeting held in Makurdi. The meeting aimed at fostering unity within the party saw the participation of Gov. Hyacinth Alia, party leaders, lawmakers, and other influential stakeholders from across the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, revealed the resolutions reached after the closed-door deliberations. Akume stated that stakeholders conducted an open review of the grievances, disagreements, and political misunderstandings that had weakened the party. He emphasized that members agreed to prioritize unity, dialogue, and mutual respect moving forward. “We reviewed our mistakes and agreed to rebuild an inclusive party,” Akume said.
Akume highlighted that party leaders acknowledged how divisions had hindered political progress and affected internal confidence. A consensus was reached, supporting Alia’s return as the governorship candidate. The governor acknowledged the concerns raised by aggrieved members during discussions and offered an apology, which Akume described as an important step toward reconciliation. He also conveyed President Bola Tinubu’s message on party unity, urging elected APC officials, including lawmakers at both state and national levels, to work together.
Akume expressed confidence that the meeting would strengthen party cohesion in Benue, adding that unity would enhance cooperation ahead of future political activities. Following the meeting, Gov. Alia described the gathering as timely and necessary, stressing its role in healing divisions and restoring confidence. “This meeting was deliberate and aimed at bringing everyone back together,” Alia said, offering apologies to members who felt excluded or offended. He emphasized that Benue’s interests must take precedence over personal ambitions, stating, “Benue is bigger than any individual, and unity must prevail.”
The governor highlighted that reconciliation was vital for effective governance and development, underscoring the need for leadership to involve sacrifice, understanding, and collective responsibility. Addressing reports of automatic tickets, Alia clarified that no official directive had been issued by the party leadership. He explained that comments about automatic tickets were merely appeals for support, not formal approvals.