By Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has expressed confidence in the re-election prospects of Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, assuring that his second term bid remains strong ahead of the 2027 elections.

Akume gave the indication shortly after a reconciliation meeting held with key stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State on Sunday in Makurdi. He also hinted that senators and members of the House of Representatives from the state should work towards returning to the National Assembly in 2027.

Speaking after the meeting, the SGF urged party members to allow peace to prevail in the state and called on all stakeholders to set aside their differences and work collectively for the success of the party in the forthcoming elections.

The reconciliation meeting, which took place at the New Banquet Hall of the Benue State Government House, was convened by Governor Alia alongside party leaders. The gathering lasted several hours, during which far-reaching decisions were taken to address grievances and foster unity within the party.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Governor Alia stated that the initiative was aimed at mending fences among aggrieved party members and strengthening internal cohesion.

While reacting to comments regarding automatic tickets for lawmakers, the governor clarified that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not made any official pronouncement granting automatic return tickets to National Assembly members. He noted that Akume’s remarks should be seen as goodwill and encouragement rather than a definitive directive.

Governor Alia emphasized that reconciliation remains the core objective, noting that he had tendered an unreserved apology to aggrieved members and appealed for unity.

“I have deliberately offered an unreserved apology to those who feel wronged. The aim is to bring everyone together as one indivisible entity for the progress of our party and the state,” he said.