*Insists Akume remains party leader in state
By; ARCHIBONG ESUENE, Makurdi
The Benue All Progressives Congress (APC) National Assembly Caucus has debunked the claims that there are two factions of the ruling party in Benue State.
This was expressed in a statement by Hon Philip Agbese, the joint spokesman of the NASS members and federal appointees from the State.
Agbese said those making such insinuations are “desperate comedians who are struggling for Mr. Ibu’s role in Nollywood.”
He further said that it is only in Benue that some deluded characters who thrive in hero-worshiping individuals as demi-gods want to turn logic on its head.
The Federal lawmaker said the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, remains the leader of the party in Benue as far as the APC’s doctrine and philosophy are concerned.
Agbese cited Borno, Ogun, Kebbi, and other states where Senator Kashim Shettima, Chief Olusegun Osoba, and Atiku Bagudu are still recognised as leaders of the party.
“Even before Shettima became the Vice President of the country, he was regarded as the leader in Borno State,” the Deputy Spokesman of the House of Reps added.
“What did he do for Zulum that Senator Akume didn’t do to make Rev (Fr) Hyacinth Alia the Governor of our state?” the statement queried.
“We are true party men and doing things the unique way in line with the party’s doctrine of command, and that’s why members of the National Assembly Caucus are highly respected in our constituencies,” the statement added.
“We have not told anyone in our domains that we are the leaders of the party. For example, how do I address myself as the leader of the party in my federal constituency with Senator Ameh Ebute, Chief Audu Ogbeh, and Chief John Ochoga all from my place?”
