The discord between the two political titans who are both prominent figures in Benue's political arena, has it's origin from disagreements over party leadership and governance approaches. This disagreements however, became pronounced on the choice of who became the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly in 2023. While the SGF who was the political godfather of the governor rooted for Mrs Becky Orpin, Alia on the other side through political maneuvering, installed his loyalist, Mr. Aondona Dajor as Speaker.
Although Governor Alia has publicly denied any rift, describing such claim as "speculations" and "figments of imagination", underlying tensions have been evident. Resultantly, the APC in Benue has been divided into factions, with one led by Benjamin Omale, loyal to Alia, and another by Austin Agada, aligned with Akume .
Efforts by the APC's national leadership to reconcile the factions included forming a caretaker committee comprising members from both sides. However, this move faced resistance, with Agada's faction obtaining a court injunction against the dissolution of its executive, highlighting the deep-seated divisions within the party.
The political turmoil has significant ramifications and implications for Benue's security. The state's history of communal clashes, particularly between farmers and herders, necessitates cohesive leadership to address security challenges effectively. Recent attacks in Gwer West and Apa local government areas, resulting in over 20 deaths, underscore the urgency for unified governance. Major political stakeholders who are loyal to the SGF but resident in the crisis prone areas and who may have local intelligence about the crisis are hardly consulted by the governor because of their political alliance and vice versa stretching the solution to the insecurity problem.
The factionalism within the APC has led to administrative inefficiencies, with reports of state lawmakers loyal to Akume being suspended and denied official vehicles and constituency allowances. While majority of the federal lawmakers on Akume's side are at dagger drawn with Gov Alia. Such internal disputes divert attention from pressing security concerns, potentially emboldening criminal elements and exacerbating instability.
Recognizing the detrimental effects of the feud, various stakeholders have called for reconciliation. The Tiv Traditional Council, led by the Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, has intervened, urging both leaders to prioritize the state's interests. Similarly, the North-Central APC Forum warned that the ongoing discord could jeopardize the party's prospects in the 2027 elections.
Despite these interventions, the path to unity remains fraught. Accusations persist, with some alleging that Governor Alia has rebuffed peace efforts initiated by President Bola Tinubu and the APC leadership. As the insecurity in the state persist ,the governor in a recent Channels Television program "Politics Today" also revealed that the results of the panel of inquiries he set up regarding insecurity in parts of the state were already indicting some "big Abuja based politicians," promising to deal with them without mercy at the end of the exercise.
Without doubt therefore, the feud between Governor Alia and SGF Akume poses a significant threat to both the political stability and security of Benue State. As the state grapples with security challenges, unified leadership is paramount. Resolving internal party conflicts and fostering collaboration between key political figures are essential steps toward ensuring peace and development in Benue.
