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…accuses him of plotting destabilization
From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
A group, Benue Development Coalition, has petitioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, over what they described as the “overbearing” of Senator George Akume, the Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), in Benue politics.
The group, in the petition alleged that the SGF, through his actions, was working against the interest of the state, thus pushing for destabilization of the state and the downfall of the governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.
The petition which was signed by the President of the Coalition, Dr. Peter Gwa, appealed to the President to call the SGF to order, and also take urgent action, to avoid further breakdown of law and order which could tamper with peace in the state, thus slowing down socioeconomic growth and development of the state.
It noted that, despite the reality of the influx of herdsmen in the State, intelligence on ground suggest that the SGF is aware of plots by his loyalists to take advantage of the “herdsmen narrative” and activate local militia to cause mayhem, just to get at the governor.
“The security of lives and property of Nigerians rest with you Mr. President. Any attempt to politicize insecurity by any individual must be discouraged, hence you should call the SGF to order for the sake of stability that is needed for socioeconomic development.”
The petition further alleged that prior to the recent killings in the state, the governor after a State Security Council deliberations approved the full implementation of the anti-open grazing law enforcement. “This suggest readiness to tackle the issue in line with existing law. Unfortunately, some National Assembly members are being used by the SGF to undermine the efforts of governor.”
Also in the petition, the SGF was accused of making nominations for appointments without consulting with the governor of Benue State. “Such instances abound since the inception of the administration. The humility and sacrifices made by governor Hyacinth Alia in this regard should be reciprocated by the SGF.
“In every other state including the opposition states, governors are responsible for nominations for federal appointments. This has been the practice overtime. Why is the case of Benue State different? We are confident that you are going to look into the concerns raised in this correspondence.”
The group, in the petition, also registered their discontent with the SGF’s “unholy” hobnobbing with the immediate-past governor, Samuel Ortom, alleging plots to destabilize Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration using insecurity as the major narrative.
“The plots have begun to yield their expected result as insecurity has worsened mostly in parts of the state represented by the SGF loyalists, and this calls for intervention of the President.
“The SGF must be guided and encouraged to align with the leadership of the Benue State led by governor Alia. The SGF has a choice to sacrifice and promote stability or resign from office.”
