Will Senator George Akume Stand Firm for Akuttah?

The political atmosphere in Benue State is once again heating up as 2027 approaches, and one question continues to dominate political conversations: Will Senator Dr. George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue, stand firmly behind Barr. Akuttah—or even Hon. Buyan—as his preferred governorship candidate?

An objective examination of Akume’s political history suggests that the answer may not be as straightforward as many expect. A review of his choices from 2007 to 2023 reveals a consistent pattern: Akume rarely settles for his closest associates when it comes to selecting governorship candidates.

The 2007 Surprise: Udende Sidestepped for Suswam

In 2007, political observers were almost certain that Senator Emmanuel Udende—then considered Akume’s political protégé—would emerge as the chosen candidate. Udende was believed to have been thoroughly groomed for leadership.

Yet, in a dramatic twist, Gabriel Suswam returned from Abuja, after two terms in the National Assembly, clinched the ticket, and eventually emerged governor. Udende was dropped despite his proximity to Akume.

2011: Akume Chooses an Outsider Over His Loyalists

After Suswam and Akume fell out politically, several long-standing associates of Akume stepped forward with confidence—backed by his assurances.

Names like Dr. Damon, the late Shima Ayati, and the late Engr. Bisibi Ati were frontrunners.

Surprisingly, Akume bypassed all of them and brought in Prof. Steve Ugba, an academic based in the United States who had not been part of the inner circle. Ugba flew the ACN flag but lost heavily to Suswam.

2015: Jime and Achado Overlooked for Ortom

With the formation of the APC coalition, many assumed Akume would pick from among his trusted disciples—Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Jime or Arc. Asema Achado, who at the time was unarguably his closest ally.

Again, Akume defied expectations, settling for Chief Samuel Ortom, who had just defected from the PDP. Ortom seized the moment and became governor.

2019: Jime Gets the Ticket—but Not as Akume’s First Choice

By 2019, Jime finally secured the APC ticket. However, insiders maintain he was not Akume’s preferred candidate. Jime ran a competitive race but lost to incumbent Governor Ortom amid overwhelming security concerns and the power of incumbency.

2023: The Rise of Fr. Hyacinth Alia

Perhaps the most striking example came in 2023. Despite the presence of seasoned APC figures—Prof. Terhemba Shija, Sen. B.I. Gemade, Hon. Mathias Buyan, Barr. Mike Aondoakaa, SAN, and others—many of whom had been instrumental in building the APC in Benue, Akume once again bypassed his long-term allies.

He instead turned to Fr. Hyacinth Alia, an outsider to the APC power structure, who eventually won the governorship.

What Does This Mean for 2027?

Given this established pattern, the big question remains:

Will Senator George Akume stand firmly behind Barr. Akuttah or Hon. Buyan in 2027?

Based on history, it is unlikely to assume that Akume will automatically back either of them. His political style has demonstrated a preference for strategic, sometimes surprising choices—often outside his immediate political circle.

If previous cycles are anything to go by, Akume may once again introduce a “hidden candidate” or unconventional choice who aligns with broader political calculations rather than personal loyalty.

While Barr. Akuttah and Hon. Buyan are active, loyal, and visible contenders within the APC, Akume’s political history suggests that proximity or loyalty alone has never been the deciding factor in his selections.

Benue’s political watchers should therefore brace for the unexpected. As 2027 approaches, only time will reveal whom Senator Akume will ultimately throw his weight behind—but history strongly suggests that it may not be the predictable choice.