CSOs Fault Amachree’s Book, Allege Distortions in Intelligence Narrative

An amalgamation of civil society groups in Nigeria has expressed concern over claims attributed to former Assistant Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), Dennis Amachree, in his recently published book, Man’s Journey Behind the Shield.

In a statement jointly signed by Comrade Wale Adegoke, Convener, and Comrade Musa Abdullahi, Secretary, the groups said they found several assertions in the publication controversial and questioned what they described as the credibility of some of the narratives presented.

According to the groups:

“In the contemporary history of the Nigerian intelligence community, certain names continue to ring a bell. These include the late IGP M.D. Yusuf, Alhaji Umaru Shinkafi, Chief A.K. Horsfall, Alhaji Gambo Jimeta, General Aliyu Gusau, General Haliru Akilu, the late Rear Admiral Tunde Elegbede, Air Vice Marshal Idi Musa, Colonel A.K. Togun, Colonel Ibrahim Sabo, Colonel Isaac Nnona, Colonel J.K. Olu, Colonel C.K. Emein, the late CP Abubakar Tsav, Colonel M.I. Bawa, Major Shaibu Galma, among several others of blessed memory.

“These were thoroughly trained professionals who served Nigeria with patriotism, professionalism, integrity, and unwavering dedication to national service.”

The groups questioned what they described as Amachree’s attempt to place himself among some of Nigeria’s most prominent intelligence professionals, arguing that many former senior officers maintained strict professional ethics both during and after their years of service.

They further stated that, in their view, Amachree’s professional standing within the intelligence community did not place him in the same category as several former Directors-General and senior intelligence figures, including Peter Nwadua, Colonel Kayode Are, Major Emohe, and Afakriya Gadzama.

The groups also raised questions regarding Amachree’s account of his alleged involvement in investigations relating to claims surrounding the death of former Head of State, General Sani Abacha.

According to the statement:

“Firstly, he wrote about his role in the investigation of a woman who allegedly claimed that former Head of State, General Sani Abacha, died on top of her. As an Assistant Director posted to the Shangisha, Lagos State office of the DSS, far removed from both the Awolowo Road Annex and the Service Headquarters in Abuja, it raises legitimate questions regarding the extent of his involvement in such a nationally sensitive matter.”

The groups argued that the book did not sufficiently acknowledge the roles allegedly played by other senior intelligence officers and security agencies involved in investigations surrounding the death of a serving Head of State.

They also criticised Amachree’s comments regarding former Minister of Communications and Digital Economy, Professor Isa Ali Ibrahim Pantami.

According to the groups:

“Professor Pantami was never on the wanted list of any intelligence agency in Nigeria or elsewhere. He was equally never invited for questioning on account of his sermons or religious expressions.”

The groups contended that opposition to Pantami’s ministerial appointment was politically motivated and alleged that previous campaigns against him were intended to frustrate his emergence and growing political relevance.

They further argued that intelligence assessments are dynamic and subject to review in light of changing circumstances, citing practices in intelligence institutions across different countries.

The statement alleged that efforts to revisit issues surrounding Pantami were part of what the groups described as continuing attempts by his critics to undermine his reputation and political prospects.

According to the groups:

“Pantami’s political opponents are becoming increasingly uncomfortable with the goodwill and support he continues to enjoy as speculation grows regarding his possible participation in the 2027 Gombe State governorship election.”

The groups also accused Amachree of presenting what they described as a selective narrative in the book.

They questioned the absence of extensive discussion on issues such as the assassination of Rear Admiral Tunde Elegbede, the killing of Chief Harry Marshall, the controversy involving Pastor Ayo Oritsejafor’s aircraft during an arms procurement investigation, and the conviction of military officers linked to the diversion of arms from the Nigerian Army Ordnance Depot in Kaduna.

The groups further argued that the publication devoted significant attention to issues they considered less relevant to contemporary intelligence discourse, while paying insufficient attention to developments relating to Niger Delta militancy before and after the Presidential Amnesty Programme.

Concluding the statement, the groups described the publication as politically motivated and maintained that the references to both the late General Sani Abacha and Professor Pantami were unfair and provocative.

They also alleged that Professor Pantami remains the target of interests opposed to reforms and policies associated with his period in public office.

The groups urged Nigerians to critically assess the narratives contained in the publication and to consider what they described as the broader political context surrounding the issues raised in the book.

2027: Sam Ode’s Pick, a Well-deserved Reward for Unalloyed Loyalty

Solomon Semaka

In the history of Nigerian politics, loyalty is not a virtue to be assumed; it is a character forged in the fires of consistency, humility, and absolute dedication.

As the political landscape of Benue State shifts toward 2027, the toxic political ecosystem in Benue was saturated with intense speculation over whether Governor Hyacinth Alia would retain Dr. Sam Ode as his deputy for the 2027 Gubernatorial election.

Obviously, the choice of Right Honourable Sam Ode as the running mate to His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia has effectively brought to a close the evil suspicions, shameless lies, envy and morbid ambitions surrounding the choice of who becomes the deputy to the Governor in 2027. The affirmation stands as a powerful testament to unwavering loyalty, and a well-deserved reward for unalloyed dedication and commitment.

In an era where political relationships are often transactional, the synergy between Governor Alia and Deputy Governor Ode proves that fidelity to a leader and a shared vision still yields the greatest dividends for governance.

The decision to retain Dr. Sam Ode is no doubt a verdict on loyalty, strategy, and trust. It closes several years of whispers, plots, and “poisonous enmity,” and opens a new chapter of heathy relationship that transcends politics.

This endorsement is, first and foremost, a moment to express profound gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Hyacinth Alia. By standing firmly with his deputy for the upcoming 2027 election, the governor has rewarded true loyalty and sent a clear message across the nation that trust and alignment in the executive chambers are sacrosanct.

As the American businessman Robert Bosch famously noted, “I would rather lose money than trust.” Governor Alia has demonstrated that a stable, unified leadership team is the ultimate foundation for the continued transformation of Benue State.

This strategic pick secures an unbreakable covenant with the people of Zone C. The entire Idoma nation and the surrounding local governments stand completely unified behind the Alia-Ode ticket. This is not just a political alignment; it is a total assurance of support from a region that recognizes when its interest is genuinely protected.

The people of Zone C pledges their total, unalloyed votes and structures to ensure a resounding victory, validating the mutual respect that defines the current administration.

Sam Ode is not a newcomer to the complex machinery of governance. His selection is rooted in decades of institutional experience, deep political wisdom, and a profound understanding of public administration.

Having served at various tiers of government, from local administration to national prominence, he possesses a rare, prudent grasp of state politics. As the philosopher Aristotle once observed, “He who cannot be a good follower cannot be a good leader.” Ode’s long-standing service to Benue State highlights his unique ability to balance administrative excellence with absolute submission to his principal’s executive vision.

In the history of Nigerian politics, the office of the deputy governor has frequently been marred by friction and unnecessary rivalry. Sam Ode breaks this mold completely, serving as the ultimate blueprint for deputy governors nationwide to emulate.

Dr. Sam Ode has masterfully balanced visibility with humility, ensuring his actions always amplify the governor’s achievements rather than overshadowing them. His conduct proves that a deputy can be highly competent, deeply influential, and entirely loyal all at the same time.

Prior to his venture into politics, Ode understands both the dynamics of power and the essence of unwavering loyalty. He gives his all to any cause he believes in without holding back, with sincerity and unshakable dedication.

Beyond his loyalty, Ode brings a wealth of invaluable attributes to the table: He seamlessly connects diverse ethnic and political factions across Benue’s distinct zones. As a grassroots champion, Ode maintains a direct, authentic heartbeat with the local communities, ensuring governance remains people-centered. His calm temperament and diplomatic acumen have quietly defused political tensions, keeping the administration focused on development.

As Benue marches confidently toward 2027, the Alia-Ode continuity represents stability, shared vision, and a prosperous future. It is a partnership built on solid rock, ready to lift the state to even greater heights.

Solomon Semaka is a public Affairs Commentator and Senior Special Assistant To The Executive Governor of Benue State on Civil Society and Strategic Engagements Office.

Court fixes August 27 for hearing in Benue APC candidates’ suit

A Federal High Court in Abuja has fixed August 27 for definite hearing in a suit filed by aggrieved members of the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who are challenging their alleged substitution as validly nominated candidates for the 2027 general election.
Justice Inyang Ekwo adjourned the matter at the instance of counsel to the plaintiffs, Mohammed Ndarani (SAN), who sought time to respond to a preliminary objection filed by the APC, the first defendant, challenging the court’s jurisdiction to hear the suit.

Justice Ekwo directed counsel for the parties to file and exchange their processes before the next adjourned date, warning that any counsel who failed to do so would be personalized.
Matthew Burka appeared for the APC, while the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the second defendant, was represented by Oluwole Olukunle.
The adjournment followed an earlier order by the court directing the APC and INEC to maintain the status quo in the dispute over candidates who emerged from the party’s Benue State primaries.
The order was made last Thursday during proceedings in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1429/2026, filed by Engr. Sesugh kaaba and other aggrieved APC candidates from Benue State against the party and the electoral commission.
The plaintiffs, through an ex parte motion filed on July 5, sought six interim reliefs, including an order restraining the APC from substituting its validly nominated candidates through a June 29 correspondence to INEC, or any subsequent communication, pending determination of the substantive suit. They also asked the court to compel the APC to transmit to INEC the names of candidates validly nominated during primaries monitored by the commission.
When the matter first came up on July 8, the court declined to grant the interim application immediately, directing the APC and INEC to appear and respond before any ruling. The matter was adjourned to July 16.
At Thursday’s proceedings, counsel for the APC and INEC were in court, while the plaintiffs were represented by Ndarani and his legal team.
Ruling on the application, Justice Ekwo held that since issues had been joined by the parties — particularly with INEC now before the court the defendants were bound by law to preserve the subject matter of the litigation pending determination of the suit. When plaintiffs’ counsel urged the court to caution the APC and INEC against any action affecting the disputed list of candidates, the judge said it was “not a matter of advice but of law,” stressing that the defendants were bound to maintain the status quo.
The court accordingly restrained the APC and INEC from taking any action capable of altering the disputed list of candidates pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit. The defendants did not object to the restraining order.
At the commencement of proceedings, the court noted that all parties had voluntarily submitted to its jurisdiction by filing and exchanging their respective processes, and held that there was no procedural or jurisdictional impediment to an expeditious determination of the case. It directed that the matter be heard without further delay.
In furtherance of preserving the res and safeguarding the judicial process, the court ordered all parties to maintain the status quo pending final determination of the suit, restraining any act capable of prejudicing the rights of the parties or rendering the proceedings nugatory. It further directed that INEC be served forthwith with the originating and all consequential processes.
The effect of the subsisting order is that INEC is restrained from tampering with the existing list of candidates and from receiving, recognising, or acting on any purported substituted list of National Assembly candidates from Benue State submitted by the APC.

CONGRATULATION TO HON. GINIKA FLORENCE TOR ON HER APPOINTMENT AS FEDERAL COMMISSIONER, NATIONAL SALARIES, INCOMES AND WAGES COMMISSION

I, Amb. Tonye Sylvester Iyade, extend my warmest congratulations to Hon. Ginika Florence Tor on her well-deserved appointment as a Federal Commissioner of the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission by His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.

This prestigious appointment is a clear recognition of Hon. Ginika Florence Tor’s years of dedicated service, unwavering loyalty, competence, and commitment to nation-building. Her appointment reflects the confidence reposed in her ability to contribute meaningfully to the advancement of the Commission’s mandate and the continued progress of our dear nation.

I also wish to express my profound appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR.for this thoughtful appointment. It is yet another demonstration that the President values commitment, hard work, capacity, and those who have remained steadfast in supporting and advancing the ideals of the Renewed Hope Agenda. By appointing capable and experienced individuals into strategic positions, the President continues to reinforce his administration’s commitment to good governance, merit, and effective service delivery.

There is no doubt that Hon. Ginika Florence Tor possesses the experience, character, and leadership qualities required to excel in this important national assignment. I am confident that she will discharge her responsibilities with integrity, professionalism, and dedication, while contributing significantly to the realization of the Renewed Hope vision of the Tinubu administration.

As she assumes this important office, I pray that Almighty God grants her wisdom, strength, sound health, and divine guidance to serve Nigeria with excellence and leave behind a legacy of impactful service.

Congratulations once again, Hon. Ginika Florence Tor, on this remarkable and well-deserved appointment. I wish you a successful and rewarding tenure in service to our great nation.

Signed:

Amb. Tonye Sylvester Iyade

Britain’s Revolving Leadership Chair: The High Cost of Political Instability

By James Aduku Odaudu, PhD

Britain’s recent cycle of rapid prime ministerial turnover has exposed a deeper structural problem within its political system: the erosion of governing continuity. What was once celebrated as one of the world’s most stable parliamentary democracies now appears increasingly vulnerable to short-term political calculations, factional battles, and abrupt policy reversals.

The succession of leaders from David Cameron to Theresa May, Boris Johnson, Liz Truss, Rishi Sunak, Keir Starmer, and now Andy Burnham has transformed 10 Downing Street into a symbol not merely of political change, but of institutional fragility. We’re talking about a nation that has produced seven prime ministers in ten years.

While leadership changes are normal in parliamentary systems, the speed and frequency of Britain’s transitions raise a more troubling question: can the United Kingdom still provide the long-term strategic consistency expected of a major global power?

Instability Beyond Westminster
The common interpretation of Britain’s leadership churn is that it reflects domestic political turbulence. Brexit divisions, party rebellions, economic shocks, and leadership contests have all contributed to the rapid succession of prime ministers.

But this explanation is incomplete. The more consequential issue is that each transition has often brought a recalibration of policy priorities, fiscal strategy, and diplomatic tone.

In a global environment defined by geopolitical rivalry, economic uncertainty, and security threats, continuity matters as much as competence. Allies do not simply assess whether a government is capable today; they assess whether it will remain committed tomorrow. Britain’s recent political volatility has therefore created uncertainty not only within its own borders, but also among the countries that depend on London as a reliable partner.

The Economic Credibility Problem
Frequent leadership changes have weakened Britain’s economic credibility in several ways. Investors and markets value predictability because it reduces risk. When governments change rapidly, fiscal priorities can shift abruptly, creating uncertainty over taxation, borrowing, regulation, and public spending.

The Liz Truss episode in 2022 demonstrated how quickly confidence can evaporate when markets perceive policy inconsistency. The reaction to her unfunded tax-cutting proposals triggered turmoil in the bond market, forced intervention by the Bank of #England, and ultimately contributed to her resignation.

Although subsequent governments restored a measure of stability, the episode left a lasting impression: Britain was no longer immune to the kind of market scepticism traditionally associated with less stable economies.
Compounding this challenge is the country’s mounting public debt, which has approached levels that significantly constrain fiscal flexibility. Every incoming prime minister inherits not only economic pressures but also the political temptation to distance themselves from their predecessor’s policies.

The result is a cycle in which long-term reforms are announced, diluted, postponed, or abandoned before they can produce measurable results.

The International Consequences

The international implications of Britain’s instability are arguably more serious than its domestic effects. The United Kingdom remains a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, a leading NATO power, and a key participant in global diplomacy. Such a role requires sustained strategic direction.

Yet allies in Washington, Brussels, and across #NATO increasingly face the challenge of recalibrating their expectations with each new British administration. Diplomatic relationships must be rebuilt, policy commitments reassessed, and ongoing negotiations revisited. This constant reset weakens Britain’s ability to shape international outcomes because influence is built through consistency, not episodic engagement.

There’s also the angle of defence and security uncertainty. Britain has been a vocal supporter of #Ukraine and a central contributor to #NATO’s collective security framework.

However, leadership instability introduces uncertainty into these commitments. A future government facing fiscal pressures may be forced to reconsider defence spending priorities, military deployments, or foreign aid allocations.

For allies confronting long-term security threats, uncertainty is itself a strategic risk. They must ask whether Britain’s commitments are durable or contingent upon the survival of the current government. The mere existence of that doubt diminishes London’s leverage within alliance politics.
Long-term trade agreements, climate accords, and regulatory partnerships require years of negotiation and implementation. When governments change frequently, negotiating partners may hesitate to make concessions or invest political capital in agreements that could later be revised.
This has been particularly evident in the post-Brexit era, where Britain has sought to redefine its economic relationships with both Europe and the wider world. The absence of a stable, long-term policy framework has complicated these efforts, making Britain appear less predictable than many of its competitors.

The Erosion of Soft Power

Britain’s global influence has historically rested not only on military strength or economic capacity, but also on the appeal of its institutions. The British parliamentary system, the rule of law, and the peaceful transfer of power have long been presented as models of democratic governance.
When prime ministers are removed through internal party crises rather than electoral mandates, that image is weakened. #Britain can still advocate for democratic stability abroad, but its message carries less authority when its own executive leadership appears trapped in perpetual turbulence.

It would be simplistic to attribute Britain’s instability solely to the personalities of its recent prime ministers. The deeper issue lies in the incentives embedded within the political system: party factions can remove leaders without a general election, short-term political survival often outweighs long-term planning, and governments can change direction abruptly without broad public consultation.

This is not an argument against parliamentary democracy. Parliamentary systems can be highly stable when parties possess internal discipline and a shared strategic vision. The concern is that Britain’s recent experience suggests that those conditions have weakened, allowing leadership contests to substitute for coherent governance.

The Test for Andy Burnham

As Andy #Burnham assumes office, his challenge extends beyond managing the economy or navigating domestic politics. He must convince both the British public and the international community that the United Kingdom can once again provide predictable, long-term leadership.
That will require more than rhetorical appeals for unity. It demands institutional reforms that strengthen policy continuity, reduce the frequency of destabilising leadership contests, and create mechanisms for sustaining long-term national strategies across changes in government.

If Britain fails to address these structural weaknesses, its allies may gradually adjust to a world in which London is no longer viewed as a dependable strategic anchor. In international politics, credibility is not lost in a single moment; it erodes through repeated episodes of uncertainty. Britain’s revolving-door Downing Street has already begun that erosion. The question now is whether the country can halt it before the damage becomes irreversible.

• Dr #Odaudu, a development administrator and public affairs commentator, can be reached at jamesaduku@gmail.com

Why We Want Senior Public Officer Adetunji Sacked – CSAACAO

A coalition of civil society organisations under the umbrella of the Civil Society Alliance Against Corruption and Abuse of Office (CSAACAO) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately remove Surveyor Akande Moruf Adetunji from public office over what it described as grave allegations of misconduct, abuse of office, and violations of public service ethics.

In an open letter jointly signed on Thursday in Abuja by the National Coordinator of CSAACAO, Comrade Gbenga Akande, and the National Secretary, Comrade Ishaya Abdullaziz, on behalf of 20 other civil society organisations, the coalition urged the President to order a comprehensive investigation into the allegations while emphasizing the need to protect the integrity of the public service.

According to the coalition, the allegations against the public officer include alleged professional misconduct, abuse of official authority, intimidation, misuse of office for personal interests, sponsorship of defamatory publications against another public officer, unethical conduct, media manipulation, and alleged administrative and financial irregularities during his tenure.

The group also alleged that Surveyor Adetunji is involved in an ongoing court matter and claimed that a bench warrant was reportedly issued for his arrest. It argued that, if confirmed, such circumstances would be incompatible with continued service in public office.

CSAACAO further alleged that the official, despite reportedly reaching the statutory retirement age, has refused to process his retirement by allegedly failing to submit the necessary retirement documents and withholding official records.

The coalition claimed that these actions, if established, could amount to violations of the Public Service Rules, the Pension Reform Act, and the Code of Conduct for Public Officers.

The coalition warned that allowing a public officer facing such allegations to remain in office could undermine public confidence in the administration’s anti-corruption agenda, weaken trust in the civil service disciplinary system, and create the impression that misconduct is tolerated.

While acknowledging the constitutional presumption of innocence, the coalition argued that public officers occupying sensitive positions should step aside whenever credible allegations arise pending the outcome of investigations.

Among its demands, CSAACAO urged President Tinubu to immediately remove Surveyor Adetunji from office in the public interest, direct a full-scale investigation into all allegations against him, mandate the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigeria Police Force to investigate the reported court matter and any related issues, and ensure that anyone found culpable is prosecuted in accordance with Nigerian law.

The letter was copied to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, the Federal Civil Service Commission, and the ICPC.

As of the time of filing this report, Surveyor Akande Moruf Adetunji had not publicly responded to the allegations contained in the open letter, and the claims had not been independently verified. No official statement had also been issued by the Presidency regarding the petition.

Court stops APC, INEC from altering Benue APC primary winners

The Federal High Court in Abuja has ordered the All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to maintain the status quo in a dispute over the party’s candidates emerging from the Benue State APC primaries for the 2027 general election.

The order was made on Thursday by Justice Inyang Ekwo during proceedings in Suit No. FHC/ABJ/CS/1429/2026, filed by Engr. Sesugh Akaagba and other aggrieved APC candidates from Benue State against the APC and INEC.
The plaintiffs had, through an ex parte motion filed on July 5, 2026, sought six interim reliefs, including an order restraining the APC from substituting its validly nominated candidates in Benue State through its June 29, 2026 correspondence, or any subsequent communication, to INEC, pending determination of the substantive suit.
They also sought an order compelling the APC to immediately transmit to INEC the names of candidates validly nominated during the primaries monitored by the electoral commission.

When the matter first came up on July 8, 2026, the court declined to grant the interim application immediately, directing both APC and INEC to appear and respond before any decision was taken. The matter was adjourned to July 16.

At Thursday’s proceedings, counsel representing the APC and INEC were present in court, while the plaintiffs were represented by Mohammed Ndarani, SAN, alongside his legal team.

In his ruling, Justice Ekwo held that since issues had been joined by the parties particularly with INEC now before the court, the defendants were required by law to preserve the subject matter of the litigation pending determination of the substantive suit.
When counsel to the plaintiffs urged the court to caution APC and INEC against taking any further action that could affect the disputed list of candidates, the judge responded that it was “not a matter of advice but of law,” stressing that the defendants were bound to maintain the status quo.

The court consequently restrained APC and INEC from taking any action capable of altering the disputed list of candidates pending the hearing and determination of the substantive suit.
The defendants did not object to the restraining order.
At the commencement of proceedings, the court noted that all parties had voluntarily submitted to its jurisdiction by duly filing and exchanging their respective processes.
It held that there was no procedural or jurisdictional impediment to the expeditious determination of the substantive action, and directed that the matter be heard without further delay.
In furtherance of the objective of preserving the res and safeguarding the efficacy of the judicial process, the court ordered all parties to maintain the status quo pending the hearing and final determination of the substantive suit, restraining any act or omission capable of prejudicing the rights of the parties or rendering the proceedings nugatory.
The court further directed that INEC be served forthwith with the originating and all consequential processes.
The effect of the subsisting order is that INEC is restrained from tampering with the existing list of candidates pending final determination of the suit, and from receiving, recognising, or acting upon any purported substituted list of National Assembly candidates from Benue State submitted by the APC.
The matter was adjourned to July 21, 2026, for hearing of the substantive suit.

Goodluck Jonathan’s Family Celebrates Son’s Graduation in UK

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan and former First Lady Patience Ibifaka Jonathan recently celebrated a significant family milestone as they attended the graduation ceremony of their son, Ariara Goodluck Jonathan, at Manchester Metropolitan University in the United Kingdom.

The proud parents joined family members and well-wishers to witness Ariara receive his degree, marking the successful completion of his academic programme. The occasion was filled with joy as the Jonathan family commemorated the achievement, highlighting the importance they place on education and personal development.

The graduation ceremony attracted warm congratulatory messages from friends, associates, and admirers, who wished the graduate continued success in his future endeavours.

2027 BENUE GUBER: MORE TROUBLE FOR GOV ALIA

The Following names joined the political family of Sen. Dr. George Akume today after leaving the sinking Alia ship .

Under the leadership of Barr. Emmanuel Jime .

The are ;
Chief Nelson Alapa
Douglas pepe SAN senatorial Aspirant zone A,
Engr Peter Ashiekaa
QS Clement Beetseh
Former commissioners
Joy Luga
Ann itodo
Barr martins Shaagee
Miss Dorcas
Prof Usar Joseh
Prof Cephas Tushima
Chief Patrick Idoko
Hon Patience Akor
Hon Fred Idoko
Hon Lawrence Ekpo Onoja Jnr
Hon Andrew Abah
Hon Agbo Innocent Ikwumonu
Hon Simon Omachoko
Hon David Egboja
Dr John Garba
Among together,

APC Youth Group Alleges Plot to Substitute Benue Governorship Candidate

The All Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Vanguard has alleged that the party’s National Working Committee (NWC) is planning to substitute the Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Barrister Pius Akutah, as the APC governorship candidate in Benue State.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Monday by its Secretary, Ms. Celestina Adoke, Esq., the group claimed the alleged move was aimed at preventing Governor Hyacinth Alia from exercising his right to seek re-election in the 2027 governorship election.

According to the group, a report is allegedly being prepared to suggest that Akutah appeared before the APC governorship screening committee, which it said screened and cleared Governor Alia, Kuraun Isaac, and Hon. Terwase Orbunde for the party’s primaries.

The APC Youth Vanguard maintained that only the three aspirants participated in and were cleared during the screening exercise conducted by the committee sent from Abuja, alleging that Akutah neither appeared before the panel nor took part in the process.

The group further alleged that any attempt by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, to secure the party’s governorship ticket for Akutah despite his alleged non-participation in the screening and primary process could trigger internal disputes and legal challenges capable of affecting the party’s chances in the general election.

It also claimed that Akutah did not resign from his position as Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council within the timeline stipulated for political appointees seeking elective office ahead of the 2027 elections. The group further alleged that Akutah is currently attending an international maritime conference in London while still holding the federal appointment.

Additionally, the group alleged that any attempt to produce a screening committee report indicating that Akutah participated in the screening exercise would be improper and could have adverse consequences for the party.

The APC Youth Vanguard called on President Bola Tinubu to intervene by cautioning the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, and members of the party’s National Working Committee against what it described as an illegal move in Benue State