Tinubu urges Akume to reconcile with Alia over Benue rift
President Bola Tinubu has intervened in the lingering political rift between Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, calling for reconciliation in the interest of the state’s development.
The President, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Progressive Governors’ Forum–Renewed Hope Ambassadors Strategic Summit in Abuja on Tuesday, appealed to Akume to mend fences with Alia and foster unity among leaders in Benue State.
Addressing Akume directly, Tinubu described him as the longest-serving public servant in the current political dispensation, highlighting his decades of service as director of protocol, permanent secretary, governor, senator, minister, and now SGF.
“You have seen it all. You are an elder. Reach out to our junior brother. Let’s build Benue together. Benue deserves peace. Benue deserves development,” the President said.
Tinubu stressed the importance of unity over political divisions, noting that national cohesion must take precedence over personal differences. He cited the words of American civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., urging leaders to live together in harmony rather than allow divisions to persist.
The appeal follows reports of tensions between Akume and Alia, both prominent members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, which observers say have affected party cohesion and governance coordination.
Speaking at the State House Conference Hall, Abuja, Tinubu noted that the summit coincided with the administration’s 1,000th day in office, describing it as an opportunity to reflect on reforms undertaken and the progress made.
He said the administration’s economic reforms were beginning to yield results, with inflation easing, fuel prices moderating, and the naira stabilising. According to him, the currency was approaching N1,000 to the dollar before interventions by the Central Bank of Nigeria to ensure market stability.
