A recent war of words has erupted between Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, and George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), over the state’s growing security challenges. The controversy began when Governor Alia criticized Akume and his associates for their perceived silence on the issue during a television appearance on Friday. Akume, who served as governor of Benue from 1999 to 2007, was accused of not doing enough to address the insecurity in the state.
In response, Mr. Terrence Kuanum, special adviser to Akume, released a statement counteracting the governor’s claims. Kuanum argued that Akume has been actively engaged in addressing security concerns in Benue and has consistently brought these matters to the attention of President Bola Tinubu. He suggested that Governor Alia either misunderstands the workings of government or is attempting to manipulate public opinion by demanding that Akume publicly address the media on the state’s security situation.
The governor had claimed that an interim report from a judicial panel he set up implicated politicians based in Abuja and within the national assembly in the orchestration of attacks in the state. Although he refrained from naming those indicted, he stated that the report would be made public soon. Kuanum called on Alia to submit the names of those implicated to both President Tinubu and the federal security council, emphasizing that the allegations now carry the weight of national security concern.
Kuanum also highlighted the efforts of Benue lawmakers in the National Assembly, who have been vocal in drawing attention to the insecurity in the state. He noted that these efforts have resulted in several motions that have garnered the attention and action of the Federal Executive Council. The special adviser emphasized that Akume’s contributions to addressing insecurity in Nigeria are more effective when done through administrative channels rather than public discussions.
The situation has sparked a heated debate, with Kuanum urging Governor Alia to make good on his word and expose those involved in aiding and abetting insecurity in the state. The governor’s allegations have significant implications, and it remains to be seen how the situation will unfold. As the security challenges in Benue State continue to pose a significant threat, the need for effective collaboration and transparency between government officials is more pressing than ever.
