President Bola Tinubu has directed that Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia be returned for a second term.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, made this known during a reconciliation meeting of the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC). Akume also appealed to all party stakeholders to set aside their differences and support the governor’s reelection bid.

The reconciliation meeting was held at the Benue State Government House, where Governor Alia and SGF Akume first held a closed-door session. After their private talks, they briefed other party leaders and stakeholders on the resolutions reached. Akume conveyed President Tinubu’s clear directive, stressing that the president wants a united APC in Benue and a smooth path toward the governor’s second term.

During his speech at the meeting, Governor Alia took a humble step by apologizing to the party. He admitted that he should have provided better leadership and taken more responsibility in managing party affairs.

The governor’s apology was seen as an effort to heal wounds and bring all factions together ahead of the elections. Party members present at the meeting reportedly received his words with cautious optimism.

A communique outlining the full resolutions of the meeting is expected to be released soon. Party insiders say the communique will include concrete steps to address grievances and ensure that all stakeholders work in harmony.

The meeting has been described as a major breakthrough in resolving internal disputes that have threatened the APC’s chances in Benue State. Many now believe the party can move forward with a common purpose.

With President Tinubu’s directive now public, the focus shifts to implementing the reconciliation agreements. SGF Akume has called on all party faithful to rally behind Governor Alia and avoid any actions that could bring back divisions. The governor, for his part, has promised to be more inclusive and responsive to party concerns. As Benue APC prepares for the coming elections, leaders are hopeful that this new unity will deliver a strong victory for the party.