Gov Alia Opens Up on Shock Move to Abandon APC: “The Truth Must Be Told”

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has firmly debunked widespread rumours suggesting he is planning to dump the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the reports as a calculated attempt by political detractors to destabilize his administration and create divisions within the ruling party.

The controversy was triggered earlier in the week after online reports alleged that the governor had held a secret meeting with former National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Senator Iyorchia Ayu, in Makurdi. The claim, which spread quickly on social media, fueled speculation that the governor was considering a defection ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Reacting through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia dismissed the allegations as “fabricated, malicious and laughable,” insisting that the story lacked any element of truth. Kula said the allegation was one of many smear tactics being deployed by individuals who feel threatened by the governor’s rising political influence and achievements since assuming office.

According to the statement, those behind the rumour have launched a coordinated smear campaign aimed at distracting the government and misleading unsuspecting members of the public. The false narratives, Kula noted, were also designed to create suspicion between Governor Alia and the Presidency, especially at a time when the APC is consolidating its structures nationwide.

Kula explained that Governor Alia’s style of leadership has always been inclusive and grounded in consultation with respected figures across party lines. He pointed out that the governor has consistently engaged elder statesmen, political leaders, traditional rulers, and religious figures—not because of political deals, but because he believes governance requires wisdom, collaboration, and respect for all.

He stressed that the visit to Senator Ayu, like many others, was simply in line with the governor’s commitment to engaging key stakeholders for the peace and development of Benue State. He added that such meetings should not be misinterpreted or weaponized for political sensationalism.

The statement further clarified that Governor Alia has never contemplated leaving the APC. Instead, he has been deeply involved in strengthening the party’s grassroots network and expanding its membership base across all 23 local government areas. In recent months, the APC in Benue has recorded significant growth as several prominent political actors have joined the ruling party under the governor’s leadership.

The report highlighted notable figures such as Prof. David Iornem, Elder David Amo, and Ambassador Terhemen Tarzoor among those who recently defected to the APC, describing their entry as a vote of confidence in Governor Alia’s administration and his vision for the state.

Kula said the ongoing defections from opposition parties into the APC have rattled some political rivals who now resort to propaganda in an attempt to slow down the governor’s momentum. He noted that many blocs of former opposition structures have collapsed into the ruling party, resulting in defection ceremonies held across multiple communities in Benue State.

He argued that these developments directly contradict the narrative being pushed by political opponents who claim the governor is planning to leave the APC. Instead, Kula said Governor Alia has been a unifying force working tirelessly to reposition the party ahead of the 2027 elections.

The governor’s spokesperson reaffirmed Alia’s unwavering commitment to the APC and his determination to continue delivering on his promises of development, reforms, and improved welfare for the people of Benue State. He added that Governor Alia remains open to engaging even his fiercest critics if such dialogue would help promote peace, unity, and progress in the state.

The statement concluded by urging the public to disregard the rumours entirely, insisting that they are baseless fabrications aimed at creating unnecessary tension and distracting from the achievements of the current administration. It emphasized that Governor Alia remains firmly rooted in the APC and focused on moving Benue forward.