The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has expressed appreciation to Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating a peace and reconciliation meeting aimed at resolving internal disputes within the party.
The meeting, which took place at the Government House in Makurdi, was seen as a strategic effort to address lingering tensions and reposition the party ahead of future political activities.
In a statement issued in Makurdi, the state APC Chairman, Benjamin Omale, described the initiative as a timely and significant step toward strengthening unity within the party.
“I thank President Bola Tinubu for initiating the reconciliation meeting. This singular act shows how Mr President values and loves Benue State and its people.”
Omale also used the opportunity to reaffirm the loyalty of the Benue APC to the President, pledging continued support for his administration.
“We assure the President of our total commitment and loyalty always. Benue is all for you.”
He further commended the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, for his leadership role in promoting cohesion and stability within the party.
“The governor’s unwavering support, commitment to unity, and leadership in the party have continued to bring growth and strength across the state.”
According to Omale, the governor’s efforts in providing a conducive environment for the reconciliation meeting, as well as aligning with the President’s vision for development, have contributed significantly to the party’s progress in the state.
The reconciliation meeting was convened primarily to address differences between Governor Alia and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
While the engagement was aimed at fostering unity, reports indicate that disagreements persist—particularly on the issue of automatic tickets for elective positions ahead of the party’s primaries.
Despite this, party leaders expressed optimism about the outcome of the meeting. The APC National Vice Chairman for the North-Central zone, Mu’azu Rijau, stated that the party has moved past its internal differences and is now more united.
“Right from 2022 and 2023 when we took over power, we have been one family, and today we are all back to the fold as one united family.”
Addressing concerns over candidate selection, Rijau clarified that the party would follow established procedures in line with its guidelines and the Electoral Act.
“Principally, based on party directives and the provisions of the Electoral Act, the mode of primaries should be either consensus or direct. Initially, we have decided to adopt direct primaries in Benue State, and that has been the decision.”
