The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has dismissed as “mischievous and sponsored propaganda” a report alleging that the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, is plotting to impose a governorship candidate on the party ahead of the 2027 election.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its State Publicity Secretary, Bright Yima Antyo, the PDP said the publication, which it claimed was built on speculation and anonymous sources, was aimed at maligning key political figures and undermining the integrity of the opposition party in the state.
The party described the report as an affront to its long-standing democratic tradition, stressing that it remained one of Nigeria’s oldest political platforms with a track record of producing elected leaders at all levels through due process.
According to the statement, the emergence of Chief Michael Aondoakaa, a former Attorney General of the Federation, as the PDP’s governorship candidate followed established internal mechanisms and not the influence of any external political actor.
“To suggest that Aondoakaa emerged through the sponsorship of Senator Akume is to undermine the credibility of party members and stakeholders who participated in the process,” the PDP said.
The party also faulted claims linking Akume to the internal affairs of the PDP, describing such allegations as “baseless and illogical,” given his position as a leading figure in the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his current role in the Federal Government.
It added that attributing PDP decisions to the SGF was an attempt to deflect attention from internal challenges within the Benue State Government.
The PDP accused Governor Hyacinth Alia of failing to manage political developments within his camp, alleging that the administration was witnessing growing disaffection and defections by key allies.
It further argued that the government had not met public expectations despite increased federal allocations to states following the removal of fuel subsidy, noting that residents anticipated improvements in infrastructure, security and livelihoods.
The statement cited concerns over projects such as the underpass at High Level Junction in Makurdi, which it claimed had raised questions over planning and drainage, describing it as a symbol of “poor execution.”
The opposition party maintained that rather than addressing governance issues, the state government had resorted to political attacks and media campaigns.
“Benue people deserve explanations on how public resources are being utilised, not a stream of propaganda designed to shift attention from governance gaps,” the statement added.
On allegations relating to the Zaki-Biam compensation matter, the PDP said the issue involved complex legal processes spanning several administrations and should not be reduced to accusations against individuals.
The party also dismissed claims that Akume and other political figures were funding opposition elements to destabilise the state government, challenging those behind the allegations to provide verifiable evidence.
Describing such claims as “political blackmail,” the PDP insisted that the challenges facing the Alia administration stemmed from governance concerns, including insecurity, displacement of communities and limited economic opportunities for residents.
It maintained that public dissatisfaction was driven by what it termed a widening gap between campaign promises and actual performance.
The PDP further alleged that recent attacks against its candidate were politically motivated, expressing confidence in its chances in the 2027 governorship election.
“As 2027 approaches, the focus should be on accountability and service delivery rather than conspiracy theories,” the statement said.
Reaffirming its commitment to providing what it described as credible leadership, the PDP said it remained focused on presenting policy alternatives aimed at improving security, economic growth and governance in Benue State.
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