Crisis Brews in Benue APC Amid Governor Alia’s Alleged Defection Plot

A fresh wave of political tension has engulfed the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) following widespread speculation that Governor Hyacinth Alia is plotting to defect from the party.

The controversy erupted after reports emerged alleging that Governor Alia has been engaging in discreet political consultations with leaders of rival parties—a move perceived by many within the APC as a prelude to his possible exit.

The alleged defection plan has unsettled many stakeholders within the APC in Benue, with party loyalists accusing the governor of abandoning the structure and values that brought him to power in 2023.

A senior party chieftain who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “Governor Alia’s recent political moves suggest a deliberate disengagement from the APC. Many of us feel sidelined, and there is growing suspicion that he’s preparing to jump ship.”

The source further alleged that Alia has failed to hold regular consultations with the party leadership and has increasingly distanced his administration from core APC policy directions.

This development has caused a rift within the state party, with members warning that any attempt by the governor to leave the APC could trigger a political crisis in the state and weaken the party’s structure ahead of future elections.

“We have worked tirelessly to build the APC in Benue. If Governor Alia defects, it could demoralize our base and give the opposition a significant advantage,” said another party member in Makurdi.

The growing unease has not gone unnoticed by the APC national leadership. Sources at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja disclosed that senior figures are monitoring the situation and may intervene to prevent a potential split.

One party official said, “We are aware of the situation in Benue. Efforts are underway to initiate dialogue between Governor Alia and concerned stakeholders to resolve the internal issues amicably.”

As of the time of filing this report, Governor Alia has neither confirmed nor denied the defection allegations. Attempts to reach his media aides for comments proved unsuccessful.

Political analysts warn that any defection by the governor could significantly alter the political dynamics in Benue State, especially with the 2027 general elections on the horizon.