From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi
A high-level reconciliation meeting between the camps of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, ended on Sunday with a truce but visible disagreement over “automatic tickets” for incumbent lawmakers.
The meeting, held under tight security at the Government House in Makurdi, was seen as a strategic move to unite the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Addressing newsmen after the session, Senator Akume insisted that all current National and State Assembly members elected on the APC platform must retain their seats.
“All those elected on the platform of the APC must retain their seats; it is automatic,” Akume declared.
He emphasized the need for inclusivity to ensure victory in 2027, adding, “Where we went wrong, we want to get back. We want everyone to have a place; we want inclusiveness in this party.”
However, Governor Alia countered this position, clarifying that while the meeting agreed on supporting consensus candidates, the “automatic ticket” concept was merely an appeal by the SGF rather than a party resolution.
Alia said: “The resolution is beyond both of us because of the APC and Mr. The president has stated plainly that there are no automatic tickets.
“What the SGF expressed was a prayer and a passionate appeal to the citizens to support those currently serving; it is not what the National Chairman or the President directed.”
The SGF revealed that Governor Alia apologized for past frictions during the meeting, a move Akume described as “very good.”
Confirming this, Governor Alia stated: “I called for this meeting so we could reconcile and find common ground to work for the progress of our party.
“For those who were aggrieved, I apologized on behalf of every member of the APC. Doing so was a deliberate act asa responsible leader.”
Former Governor of Benue State, Senator Gabriel Suswam, lauded both leaders for returning to the negotiating table.
He revealed that a small committee has been established to finalize the “nitty-gritty” of the agreement
“We are happy that it is one family again; that is what is important,” Suswam noted.
Also,Senator Emmanuel Udende (Benue North East) added that the truce was vital for the party’s survival.
“We were a divided house, and we know the consequences of that. Today, we are united and will move forward stronger,” he said.
