Ortom Under Fire: Alia And Akume’s Camp Clash In Bitter Exchange!

The political rift between Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, intensified over the weekend as their supporters and aides exchanged harsh words.

The dispute flared up after Terver Akase, former Chief Press Secretary to ex-Governor Samuel Ortom, posted a photo on Facebook showing Ortom and Akume at a public event, both appearing in high spirits.

Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to Governor Alia, quickly responded, condemning the interaction as “a new low” and accusing Akume’s camp of collaborating with Ortom to undermine Alia’s administration.

“He’s become the favored figure for those who oppose the rapid infrastructural development in Benue. Ortom has now become a barrier to the restoration of the state as an agricultural hub,” Kula stated.

He further criticized Akume’s faction for manipulating Ortom to settle political scores, labeling it as a desperate tactic.

In defense, Akase, representing Ortom, advised Governor Alia to “take a chill pill” and focus on governance instead of heightening political tensions.

Akase clarified that Ortom’s attendance at the event was due to an invitation and his constitutional right to free association, questioning why Alia and his media team were so disturbed by a simple birthday celebration.

Kula intensified the rhetoric the following day, issuing a statement titled Does Senator Akume and His Team Really Care for Benue? He accused Akume of prioritizing personal access to state resources over the state’s progress and criticized his alliance with Ortom.

“Akume’s loyalty lies in gaining access to resources, and this alliance undermines the progress being made under Governor Alia’s leadership,” Kula contended.