•I’ll deal with troublemakers, vows Governor

There seems to be no end to the political crisis between Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and Secretary Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, as the two camps fixed separate congresses.

While Alia-backed party exco had given notice of elective congress and held their wards congresses across the 27 wards, Akume’s faction has described its congresses as non-elective.

The congresses took place under a peaceful atmosphere as there were no reported cases of violence.

But the governor has vowed to deal with all the plotting to cause trouble in the state.

Alia, who called on members to actively participate to build a formidable future for the state, said the exercise marks a pivotal moment for APC’s grassroots democracy.

In a statement signed by the Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Chief Solomon Iorpev, Governor Alia emphasized that the congresses are not just an exercise but the very heartbeat of our collective aspiration, forming the foundation upon which he will continue to deliver the dividends of democracy to every Benue citizen.

He urged members to view their active involvement not merely as a right, but as a sacred duty and an indispensable ingredient for the continued success of the state.

“I warned that any individual or group intending to disrupt, foment trouble, or engage in any form of mischief should steer clear of all congress venues.

“Government will not tolerate any acts of hooliganism, thuggery, or attempts to undermine the peaceful and democratic process.

But the group loyal to Akume said its congresses are non-elective.

According to Morgan Ihomun, the Publicity Secretary, Akume’s faction, “We wish to make it clear, without any ambiguity, that the congresses are non-elective, therefore all executives are to be rolled over in accordance with the resolutions of the National Executive Committee (NEC) of our great party.

“Specifically, the Ward Congresses shall be conducted by affirmation of the existing ward executives across the 276 council wards in the state.” (The Nation)