APC Presidential Primaries: SGF Akume, Minister Preaches Unity for Tinubu

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Utsev, have called on members of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State to put aside their grievances and unite behind President Bola Tinubu ahead of the party’s presidential primary elections to be held on Saturday.

Speaking to journalists in Makurdi, Akume urged party stakeholders to place the collective interest of the APC above personal ambitions, stressing that unity within the party will be crucial to its success in future elections.

The SGF has expressed concern over reports of an alleged diversion of campaign materials during the APC primaries conducted earlier this week in Benue State, describing the development as disturbing and capable of undermining confidence in the party’s internal democratic process.

He appealed to aggrieved aspirants and their supporters to embrace reconciliation and dialogue, insisting that internal disagreements should not weaken the APC in the state.

“The presidential primaries are taking place and we are here to mobilize support for our dear president. He is doing very well. I have told him several times that he has no problem in Benue state,” Akume said.

“In a democracy there will always be opposing voices, but the truth is that his performance, patriotism and inclusive governance style speak in his favor. We are confident that our people will vote en masse for Mr. President.”

Akume also called on party officials and security agencies to investigate the alleged diversion of material and ensure that anyone found guilty is held accountable.

“I have received several reports of diversion of materials and other irregularities, but I was not here during the last election, so I do not want to comment extensively on the matter. What I want is for the APC to remain a united family,” he added.

He noted that the founding members of the APC never envisaged the formation of factions within the party and expressed confidence that President Tinubu would win re-election in 2027.

Akume also appealed to party supporters to remain peaceful and actively participate in the presidential primary elections.

Utsev further said he had joined Akume in mobilizing support for Tinubu’s bid for second term, maintaining that Benue people were satisfied with the performance of the administration.

“In 2023, Benue voted en masse for President Tinubu and the people are ready to double that support in 2027,” the minister said.

Utsev also appealed to the aggrieved APC members to resolve their differences amicably for the progress of the party.

“No matter the complaints, we need to sit together as one family and move forward,” he said.