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A deepening political rift between Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, is creating uncertainty for federal lawmakers ahead of the 2027 elections. The power struggle has split the APC in the state, forcing politicians to pick sides and raising concerns over party tickets.
Benue’s National Assembly delegation three senators and 11 House members was largely dominated by the APC after the 2023 elections. However, internal divisions have since weakened party cohesion, with rival loyalties emerging between the governor and the SGF. The crisis has triggered political realignments. House Deputy Spokesperson Philip Agbese recently defected to the Labour Party, widely seen as fallout from the ongoing feud. Sources indicate that most APC lawmakers in the state align with Akume, while only a few are firmly with Governor Alia, potentially affecting ticket allocations ahead of 2027.
Prominent figures, including Blessing Onuh, are also caught in the shifting alliances, with speculation about possible party switches not until she received a federal appointment, a development that could reshape her political path. The move may take her out of immediate legislative contention while increasing her national visibility and influence. Analysts say her exit from the local contest could open up new political calculations within her constituency.
Efforts to resolve the crisis appear stalled. Interventions by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Speaker Tajudeen Abbas, and NSA Nuhu Ribadu are yet to yield results, with reports suggesting a lack of direct engagement from the governor. At the heart of the dispute is control of party structures, a decisive factor in Nigeria’s electoral politics. As tensions persist, questions remain: can the APC in Benue reconcile before 2027, or will internal divisions cost key lawmakers their seats?
