Governor Hyacinth Alia has declared that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, will not determine the political future of Benue State or influence the outcome of the 2027 governorship election.
Alia insisted that only the people of the state have the power to decide his political fate, stressing that his chances for a second term would be based on performance, pedigree, and his administration’s track record.
The governor’s position was conveyed in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, in response to remarks by the senator representing Benue North-West Senatorial District, Titus Zam. Zam had reportedly suggested that Benue people would await political direction from Akume ahead of the 2027 elections.
Kula described the senator’s comments as an “insult” to the intelligence and political awareness of the Benue electorate, arguing that the people are now more enlightened than in previous election cycles.
“Benue people are wiser and more politically aware than ever before. No individual can decide their fate in 2027. The electorate will collectively make that decision,” Kula stated.
He emphasized that the determining factors in the next governorship election would be the performance of elected officials and their commitment to delivering on campaign promises.
According to him, “What will shape the direction of the 2027 general elections in Benue is purely performance and pedigree. Those who failed to deliver on their mandate or chose loyalty to individuals over service to the people will be judged accordingly.”
The governor’s aide further maintained that Alia remains focused on governance and fulfilling his covenant with the people, expressing confidence that voters would assess his administration fairly when the time comes.
“No emperor can impose a decision on the people. Governor Alia is diligently serving the people, and they are fully aware of developments to pass their verdict,” he added.
Speaking further, Kula reiterated that it would be inappropriate for any political figure to dictate to the electorate, noting that voters would rely on what they have experienced rather than external influence.
“People are seeing the development around them. It is unreasonable to expect them to ignore that and wait for someone else to tell them what to do. That undermines their intelligence,” he said.
However, Senator Zam, speaking during an empowerment programme in Wannune, the hometown of Akume, reaffirmed his loyalty to the SGF and criticized the governor.
Zam stated that he would not disappoint Akume, whom he described as his political leader, adding that his choice of venue for the event was a mark of respect.
“I will remain loyal to Akume. I will not disappoint him or humiliate him like Governor Alia,” the senator said.
The exchange has highlighted growing political tensions within Benue State as key actors begin positioning ahead of the 2027 governorship race, with emerging divisions centering on loyalty, influence, and performance in office.
