The Benue State Government has dismissed circulating reports suggesting that Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia plans to leave the All Progressives Congress (APC) following a supposed “secret meeting” with Senator Iyorchia Ayu. Officials described the claims as baseless and politically motivated.
In a statement on Wednesday, Chief Press Secretary Tersoo Kula condemned the report as a “wicked, mischievous, and vicious smear campaign” aimed at distracting the governor from governance and misleading the presidency for political advantage.
The government emphasized that Governor Alia regularly meets with elder statesmen and national figures, regardless of political or religious affiliations, as part of his inclusive leadership approach. Visits to respected leaders, including Senator Ayu, are routine and aligned with the governor’s development-focused agenda.
The statement also highlighted Governor Alia’s consistent engagement with key stakeholders in Benue, many of whom have since joined the APC. Notable figures include former Senator Prof. David Iornem, Elder David Iorwashima Amo, and Ambassador Terhemen Tarzoor.
According to the government, the APC in Benue continues to attract opposition figures across various local government areas, with defections occurring regularly—strengthening the party rather than weakening it.
“Governor Alia remains committed to expanding the party ahead of 2027 and is open to engaging even his strongest opponents as part of a broader consolidation plan for his administration and for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement said.
Members of the public were urged to disregard the “concocted story,” which officials warned is intended to create confusion and undermine the progress of the administration.
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