The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State to close ranks and maintain unity ahead of the party’s presidential primary election scheduled for Saturday.
Akume made the appeal on Friday shortly after arriving at the Makurdi Airport, where he was received by a large crowd of party supporters and well-wishers.
Speaking to journalists, the former Benue State governor stressed that the strength of the APC lies in unity, urging stakeholders and party members to put aside personal interests for the collective good of the party.
“The presidential primaries are taking place tomorrow (Saturday). We’re here to mobilise support for our dear president. He’s doing very well,” Akume said.
He added that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s performance in office would earn him strong support in Benue State and across the country.
“In this country, his performance, his commitment to patriotism, and inclusive nature of government all speak in his favour. In democracy, you must always have some opposing voices, but the truth is that his work is remarkable. His work has been approved by most Nigerians,” he said.
Akume expressed confidence that the APC would record a strong turnout for the president during the primary election, adding that party members in the state remain solidly behind him.
However, the SGF also raised concerns over reports of alleged irregularities during earlier party primaries in the state, particularly claims of diversion of electoral materials. He described the allegations as disturbing and called for a proper investigation.
“I received so many reports about diversion of materials among other things. What I want to say is this: I want the APC to be a united family. Those of us who were founding fathers of the party do not want factions in our party,” he said.
Akume urged party officials and relevant security agencies to look into the matter and ensure accountability where necessary, while reassuring members that steps are being taken to strengthen transparency in the process.
He further appealed to aggrieved aspirants and their supporters to embrace dialogue and reconciliation, warning that internal disputes should not weaken the party’s structure in Benue State.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Akume expressed optimism that the APC would retain power at the national level, urging members to remain peaceful and actively participate in the presidential primary election.
