The already fragile peace within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State appears to be unraveling once more, following Governor Hyacinth Alia’s firm rejection of a proposal for automatic tickets, put forward by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
Despite a high-level reconciliation meeting convened on Sunday, the underlying cracks in the relationship between the two leaders have widened. The proposal, which would have granted governor and other elected APC officials automatic tickets for the next elections, was dismissed outright by Alia, who insists on transparent party primaries.
The feud between Alia and Akume traces back to the period following the 2023 general elections, when disagreements over control of party structures and political appointments sparked a bitter internal conflict. Initially a quiet rift, it quickly escalated into a full-scale factional war, splitting the Benue APC into two camps: one loyal to Akume under Austin Agada, and another supporting Alia, led by then-state chairman Ben Omakolo.
The crisis intensified in March 2026 when both factions held parallel congresses, each producing separate executives. The Alia-led faction argued that its congress was properly conducted and reflected the members’ will, while the Akume-aligned group dismissed it and organized its own, deepening the leadership void. Eventually, the national APC leadership recognized the Alia faction’s congress, which produced Ben Omale as chairman, sidelining Agada and weakening Akume’s influence.
Concerned about the potential damage to the party’s electoral fortunes, President Bola Tinubu intervened, urging both leaders to reconcile. Sunday’s meeting was intended to achieve that, but instead exposed new fault lines. According to sources, Akume proposed automatic tickets for Governor Alia and other elected APC officials, arguing it would ensure continuity and reward loyalty. However, Alia categorically turned down the idea, insisting on primaries to avoid another crisis.
An insider revealed: “While he agreed on other matters, the automatic ticket proposal was flatly rejected. He is unwilling to risk the party’s structure and does not want Akume loyalists in the National Assembly to return unchallenged.”
During a press briefing after the meeting, Alia stated: “The APC has made it clear—Mr. President and the National Chairman have repeatedly stated there is no automatic ticket. I believe this is merely a request, not a resolution. It is a prayer directed to the people, asking them to consider supporting current officeholders. But this is not an official party or government position. The meeting was for reconciliation. He has the right to make such appeals, but I consider that approach misguided.”
With unresolved grievances and a battle for control simmering beneath the surface, the Benue APC appears headed for another round of internal strife just as preparations for the 2027 elections commence.