In a strongly worded statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, the group expressed “deep concern” over what it described as “revisionist narratives” surrounding the political evolution of the APC in Benue State and the circumstances that produced Governor Alia as the party’s flag bearer in 2023.
The stakeholders insisted that Senator Akume, a former governor and immediate past Minister of Special Duties,“ spearheaded the formation, consolidation and electoral victories of the APC in Benue,” adding that he played a central role in rallying party structures, mobilising grassroots support, and facilitating consensus that eventually led to Alia’s emergence as candidate.
“History must not be distorted for political convenience; without Senator Akume’s leadership, sacrifice, and political capital, the APC would not have recorded the sweeping victory it achieved in Benue State in 2023,” they stated.