Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has strongly denied claims that he called for the dismissal of Senator George Akume as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), addressing the controversy in a statement issued on Sunday through his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula.
The governor emphasized that the allegations were part of an attempt to distract him from his work and tarnish his efforts at bringing significant development to the state.
In the statement, Governor Alia clarified that the call for Akume’s removal came from a group of appointees within his administration, but reiterated that these individuals did not speak on his behalf. “The group that issued the statement comprises adults and are entitled to express their opinions autonomously. They did not claim to speak on behalf of Governor Alia, nor did they insinuate that their call for action was sanctioned by him,” the statement read.
Alia explained that while the communiqué from the group may have reflected their personal concerns, it did not represent his official position. He further pointed out that he has consistently maintained professionalism and restraint, refraining from publicly accusing Akume despite provocations from the SGF’s political allies, including his wife, who is a member of the House of Representatives.
The Governor also rejected the insinuation that he orchestrated the call for Akume’s removal, describing it as a misleading narrative designed to divert attention from the pressing issues facing Benue State. He stressed that his focus remains squarely on delivering governance and progress to the people of the state, undistracted by personal or political conflicts. “The Governor remains focused on delivering the dividends of democracy to the people of Benue State and will not be swayed by unfounded allegations or attempts at blackmail,” the statement added.
Alia also expressed his frustration with the ongoing public attacks from Akume’s circle, but reiterated his decision to respond with restraint, rather than engaging in retaliatory measures. He underscored that the state’s development should not be overshadowed by unnecessary ideological battles or political grievances.
“We have come with a very positive narrative to governance. Benue has suffered underdevelopment for too long to mess with this opportunity,” he asserted, emphasizing that the state needs to rise above divisive politics and focus on its development. Governor Alia also made it clear that he is fully committed to his mandate, stressing that his leadership is driven by the interests of Benue State, rather than by petty political squabbles.
The statement concluded with a call for unity and progress, urging stakeholders to focus on the real issues at hand. “Enough of the ungodly attempts to queer the pitch of his leadership through unfounded accusations. The focus should remain on governance and the progress of our great state,” it declared.
