Political stakeholders in Benue State have expressed their strong disapproval of the recent unwarranted and highly condemnable attacks on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, by some Benue indigenes who seem to be determined to undermine his reputation.
During a media briefing held in Makurdi, the stakeholders asserted that those orchestrating these media attacks on SGF Akume were seemingly following a script that did not serve the best interests of the larger Benue community and the nation as a whole.
This outcry from the stakeholders comes in response to recent public statements by various groups in the state that accused the SGF of attempting to influence governance in Benue State and undermine the administration of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
The Benue Political Stakeholders, comprised of respected elder statesmen from the state, voiced their concern about these attacks during the media briefing. In a statement delivered by Mr. Shimataver Atim-Atedze, they cautioned those responsible for the attacks to cease their activities for their own benefit.
The leaders emphasized that as major stakeholders in the state, they found the attacks deeply insulting and unwarranted, considering Senator George Akume’s significant educational background, extensive political experience, and international connections. Akume has devoted his life to serving humanity and has delivered commendable results in Benue State and across Nigeria. The stakeholders lamented the unjust castigation and vilification he is facing at the hands of young individuals who may not fully comprehend the intricacies of politics and leadership.
The leaders identified the primary objective of these attacks as an attempt to create a conflict between President Bola Tinubu and Senator Akume, suggesting that the latter is contesting for the presidency. They strongly denounced these disgraceful efforts as provocative and disheartening.
The Benue Political Stakeholders called on the individuals behind these attacks to stop misrepresenting Senator Akume and refrain from tarnishing his well-earned reputation. They also urged the sponsors of these actions to redirect their resources towards more constructive endeavors and cease sowing discord and disunity in the state.
The stakeholders expressed their unwavering support for Senator Akume and called for unity across the political spectrum in Benue State. They urged traditional institutions, the Benue State government, spiritual leaders, and all notable stakeholders from various political parties to unite against these unacceptable and unwarranted attacks on Senator George Akume, a respected figure in the state.