Drama In Makurdi: SGF’s Office Slams Alia’s Allegations, Defends Akume’s Legacy

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) has pushed back against recent remarks by Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, who accused SGF George Akume of remaining silent amid the state’s worsening security crisis.

During an appearance on Channels Television Friday night, Governor Alia criticized Akume and his allies for allegedly failing to speak out or take action regarding the escalating violence in parts of Benue, particularly the conflict-ridden Sankera region.

Alia further claimed that a panel of inquiry set up by his administration had uncovered ties between the insecurity and unnamed individuals allegedly residing in Abuja, whom he suggested were sponsors of the unrest.

In response, Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs to the SGF, issued a statement Saturday condemning the governor’s comments as “misleading” and “unjust” toward Akume, who he said has been working behind the scenes to tackle the crisis.

“The SGF’s policy is to avoid public altercations, especially on issues of national security. However, the gravity of the governor’s claims demands clarification,” Kuanum stated.

He emphasized that Akume has been actively involved in engaging federal authorities, including President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council, to secure intervention in Benue.

“His methods may be discreet, but they are effective. Expecting media appearances from the SGF shows a misunderstanding of his role,” Kuanum added.

Addressing Alia’s reported criticism of Benue National Assembly members, who he allegedly linked to Akume, the SGF’s office defended them. Kuanum highlighted that Senators Titus Zam, Emmanuel Udende, and other federal lawmakers have consistently raised the state’s security issues on the National Assembly floor, helping to spotlight the crisis at the federal level.

On the governor’s inquiry panel, the SGF’s office cautioned against making public accusations without adhering to due process.

“If Governor Alia has credible evidence linking Abuja-based individuals to insecurity, the proper course is to submit those names to the President and the Federal Security Council,” the statement noted.
“Making such claims publicly without following official channels risks jeopardizing national security.”

The SGF’s office also clarified that any panel report must first go through a vetting process and be followed by a white paper before conclusions can be made public.

Kuanum urged the governor to adopt a collaborative approach rather than resort to accusations, stressing the importance of working with local stakeholders to resolve the crisis.

He also called on Alia to be consistent in his narrative regarding the source of insecurity — whether it involves local political rivalries, foreign terrorists, or both.

Concluding, Kuanum reaffirmed Akume’s dedication to the state:

“The SGF is deeply committed to Benue’s peace and development. He has chosen quiet, effective diplomacy over media drama and remains focused on delivering real results.”