Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called for unity among members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State ahead of Saturday’s presidential primary election, while also expressing concern over alleged diversion of electoral materials during the party’s recent primaries in the state.
Akume made the call on Friday shortly after arriving at the Makurdi Airport, where he was received by a large crowd of party supporters and stakeholders ahead of the presidential primary.
The SGF urged APC members to place the collective interest of the party above personal ambitions, stressing that internal cohesion remained vital to the party’s future electoral success in Benue and across the country.
He appealed to aggrieved aspirants and their supporters to embrace reconciliation and dialogue, warning that post-primary disagreements should not be allowed to weaken the party’s structure.
Speaking on the forthcoming presidential primary, Akume expressed confidence in President Bola Tinubu’s popularity and performance, particularly in Benue State.
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“The presidential primaries are taking place tomorrow (Saturday). We are here to mobilise support for our dear President. He is doing very well. I have told him repeatedly that he has no problem in Benue State,” he said.
According to the SGF, the President’s “commitment to patriotism and inclusive style of governance” had earned him the support of many Nigerians.
“In a democracy, there will always be opposing voices, but the truth is that his work is remarkable. His performance has been acknowledged by most Nigerians and we are confident that our people will vote massively for Mr President,” he added.
Akume also described reports of diversion of electoral materials during the primaries as disturbing, noting that such incidents could undermine confidence in the party’s internal democratic process.
He called on party officials and security agencies to investigate the allegations thoroughly and ensure that those found culpable were held accountable.
“I was not here during the last election, but I received several reports concerning diversion of materials and other irregularities. Since I was not physically present, I do not want to comment extensively on the matter. However, what is important is that we want the APC to remain one united family,” he stated.
The SGF further warned against factionalisation within the party, insisting that the founding fathers of the APC envisioned a united political platform.
“Those of us who founded this party do not want factions within it. We are confident that by 2027, Mr President will return to the Villa,” he said.
Akume also appealed to APC supporters across Benue State to remain peaceful and participate actively in the presidential primary election.
The statement was signed by Yomi Odunuga, Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
