George Akume Distances Self From Race For  APC National  Chairmanship Race

Dandam Suleiman

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has  denied reports linking him to the race for the National Chairmanship of the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing such claims as baseless and a needless distraction.

Akume issued the clarification on Thursday through a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga.

Reacting to a publication by a newspaper not Universal Reporters that listed him among contenders for the APC top job, the SGF dismissed the report as “fabricated” and intended to divert attention from his current duties under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“The attention of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, has been drawn to a publication suggesting that he is among politicians vying for the APC National Chairman role.

 This claim is entirely unfounded and appears to be aimed at distracting him from his primary responsibilities,” the statement read.

Akume emphasized that he has no intention of resigning or abandoning his role as SGF, stating that his loyalty lies with fulfilling the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Tinubu’s administration.

“Senator Akume is not engaged in any contest for the APC chairmanship or any other party position.

His sole focus is on supporting President Tinubu’s administration in delivering meaningful development to Nigerians,” the statement added.

While acknowledging that there are competent individuals from the North-Central who could take up the party leadership if zoned there, Akume insisted that national progress remains his top priority.

“I have no interest in a race I never joined. I remain committed to the responsibilities entrusted to me by the President, and I believe that divine purpose will always prevail,” he stated.

Akume further stressed that every role he has held has been by divine favor and the support of key figures, including President Tinubu. He reaffirmed that his goal is to help Nigerians experience the true dividends of democracy.

The SGF also appealed to media practitioners to uphold journalistic integrity and avoid sensational reports that may stir unnecessary political unrest.

“The SGF’s office remains open to the media for fact-checking and clarification.

We encourage responsible reporting, especially on matters capable of affecting national stability,” the statement concluded.