Group alleges plot to concede Benue to opposition in 2027
By Julius Alabi, Akure
The National Youths Coalition (NYC) has alleged a plot by some Abuja-based stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) to concede Benue State to opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The group made the allegation in a statement signed by its National Convener, Mr. John Vershima, urging President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intervene and halt what it described as a dangerous political development.
According to the coalition, the alleged plan became public knowledge following a recent meeting in Abuja involving a former senatorial aspirant in Benue State, Mr. Emmanuel Jime, and a top-ranking government official.
The NYC recalled that Jime had, a few days earlier, led about 21 APC chieftains from Benue State to the office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), where they reportedly expressed grievances and declared their unwillingness to work with Governor Hyacinth Alia and the ruling party in the state ahead of 2027.
Reacting to the visit, the group alleged the existence of a widely discussed strategic alliance between the unnamed senior official and the Benue State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), warning that such an arrangement could undermine the APC’s chances in future elections.
The coalition further claimed that the alleged partnership, if not checked, could lead to a repeat of the 2023 scenario when former governor Samuel Ortom was said to have influenced the outcome of the presidential election in the state in favour of Labour Party candidate, Peter Obi.
According to the group, the outcome of that election altered the political dynamics in the state and contributed to the PDP’s loss in the subsequent governorship poll.
The NYC therefore called on the National Working Committee of the APC to urgently intervene in the lingering leadership crisis within the party in Benue State, warning that failure to act swiftly could deepen internal divisions and weaken the party’s electoral prospects.
The group also criticised the role played by the PDP governorship candidate in the state, Mr. Michael Aondoakaa, over the handling of compensation for victims of the Zaki Biam–Gbeji massacres during his tenure as Attorney General of the Federation.
It accused him of failing to use his office to ensure adequate compensation for affected communities, describing the development as a missed opportunity for justice and reconciliation.
The coalition maintained that the unfolding political situation in Benue requires urgent attention from party leaders at the national level to prevent further escalation.
