The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has commended President Bola Tinubu for initiating a peace and reconciliation meeting aimed at resolving internal party disputes in the state.
The Benue State APC Chairman, Benjamin Omale, made this known in a statement issued on Tuesday in Makurdi, describing the meeting as a crucial step towards fostering unity and strengthening the party.
“I thank President Bola Tinubu for initiating the reconciliation meeting. This singular act shows how Mr President values and loves Benue State and its people,” Omale said.
He pledged the unwavering loyalty of the Benue APC to the President, adding, “We assure the President of our total commitment and loyalty always. Benue is all for you.”
Omale also commended Governor Hyacinth Alia for his role in promoting unity within the party, noting that his leadership has contributed to the party’s growth and cohesion across the state.
“The governor’s unwavering support, commitment to unity, and leadership in the party have continued to bring growth and strength across the state,” he added.
The reconciliation meeting, held at the New Banquet Hall of the Government House in Makurdi on Sunday, was convened to address differences between the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and Governor Alia.
Although both leaders reportedly disagreed over the issue of automatic tickets for elective positions ahead of the forthcoming primaries, the party leadership expressed optimism that unity had been restored.
The APC National Vice Chairman (North-Central), Mu’azu Rijau, expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the meeting, stating that the party had resolved its internal differences.
“Right from 2022 and 2023 when we took over power, we have been one family, and today we are all back to the fold as one united family,” Rijau said.
On the issue of automatic tickets for State and National Assembly members, he clarified that the party would adhere strictly to established guidelines.
“Based on party directives and the provisions of the Electoral Act, the mode of primaries should be either consensus or direct. Initially, we have decided to adopt direct primaries in Benue State, and that remains the decision,” he stated.
Margaret ABAH
