Iorfa Akpen
The Concerned Benue Democrats (CBD) is livid about Vice President Kashim Shettima’s recent comments on the impasse between Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume and Benue State Governor Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia.
The group believes Shettima’s appeal for Akume to extend an olive branch to Alia is a misguided attempt at mediation, portraying Akume as the aggressor in the crisis rocking the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State.
CBD argues that Alia has been at odds with Akume and the APC leadership since taking office, disregarding party decisions and appointing loyalists to key positions. They claim Alia’s supporters have launched a vicious campaign of insults against Akume, with some even calling for his removal as SGF.
The group questions Shettima’s motives, pointing out his silence on the security challenges in Benue State and his failure to address Alia’s disregard for APC directives. They accuse Shettima of being biased and using ambiguous remarks to fuel the crisis.
CBD insists that Akume is the victim in the crisis and urges Shettima to hold closed-door talks with Alia and Akume to resolve the impasse. They demand that Shettima focus on fulfilling his campaign promise to tackle insecurity rather than meddling in Benue politics.
The group’s statement raises several questions, including why Shettima hasn’t addressed the parallel congresses held in Benue State and why he’s prioritizing APC politics over the welfare of Benue people.
Shettima’s comments have sparked outrage among Benue Democrats, who see it as a slap in the face. The group’s demands have put the VP on the spot, forcing him to reevaluate his approach to the crisis.
The crisis has exposed deep divisions within the APC in Benue State, with Alia’s supporters pitting themselves against Akume’s loyalists. Shettima’s intervention has added fuel to the fire, making it harder to find a resolution.
CBD’s statement is a wake-up call for Shettima to reassess his priorities and focus on addressing the real issues affecting Benue State. The group’s demands are clear: stop meddling in Benue politics and focus on fulfilling campaign promises.
The ball is now in Shettima’s court, and it’s time for him to take a stand. Will he listen to the concerns of Benue Democrats or continue down the path of divisive politics?
The people of Benue State deserve better, and it’s time for their leaders to put their interests first. The crisis in the APC is a symptom of a larger problem – a lack of accountability and a focus on personal agendas.
Shettima’s next move will determine whether he’s a genuine mediator or just another politician playing politics with the lives of Benue people.
CBD’s statement has sent shockwaves through Benue politics, and it’s only a matter of time before the VP responds. The world is watching, and the people of Benue State are waiting.
The SGF has maintained his calm, but the pressure is building. Alia’s supporters are getting restless, and Shettima’s comments have given them an excuse to ramp up the rhetoric.
The APC’s internal crisis is a test of its leadership, and Shettima’s handling of the situation will be under scrutiny. Can he find a way to resolve the crisis, or will it tear the party apart?
Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the people of Benue State will not be silenced.
