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Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, SGF, Senator George Akume, and Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to foster peace and reconciliation. He cautioned that an ongoing conflict between these leaders could adversely impact Benue State, the North-Central region, and Nigeria as a whole.

Shettima made this appeal on Sunday in Makurdi while addressing attendees at the wedding reception of Senator Akume’s son, emphasizing the strategic significance of Benue to national unity and progress.

“Benue is not just the heartbeat of the nation; it represents more than being the food basket. Benue is a trendsetter and has a generous spirit,” the Vice President remarked.

He praised the Tiv people, noting that they are the largest non-Muslim ethnic group in Northern Nigeria, with communities spread across Benue, Taraba, Nasarawa, Kogi, the Federal Capital Territory, and parts of Borno State.

Reflecting on the 2023 general elections, Shettima mentioned that these elections were among the most divisive in Nigeria's recent history. However, he commended Benue voters for transcending divisions and prioritizing national interests over ethnic or religious affiliations.

“The Tiv nation chose to vote for the Nigerian candidate, rather than a religious or regional candidate,” he stated, highlighting that this decision showcased political maturity and patriotism.

The Vice President also praised Senator Akume for his inclusive leadership approach, referring to him as a unifying figure for Benue, the North-Central region, and the nation as a whole.

“The people regard him as the leader of Benue. He is a leader for the North-Central and a leader in Nigeria,” Shettima affirmed.

He warned against the perils of political discord, quoting civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.: “We either learn to live together with others or perish together.”

Shettima emphasized that the disagreement between Akume and Governor Alia should not escalate. “We cannot afford to let the discord between the esteemed elder statesman, Senator George Akume, and the Governor of Benue State, my brother, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, to grow,” he asserted.

“We have a moral responsibility to intervene and heal the wounds. What unites us is far greater than what divides us,” he added.

The Vice President warned that the consequences of a breakdown in their relationship would be serious. “If this bond deteriorates, it is the people of Benue who will suffer, as well as the people of the North-Central and Nigeria as a whole,” he cautioned.

Describing Akume as one of the most experienced public officials in the nation, Shettima pointed out his extensive career in public service. “He has paid his dues and is the longest-serving public servant in the contemporary history of this country,” he noted.

He listed Akume’s previous roles, including Director of Protocol, Permanent Secretary, two-term governor of Benue State, senator for 12 years, Senate Minority Leader for eight years, minister, and now SGF.

“This is why I often refer to him as a cat with nine lives,” Shettima joked, acknowledging Akume’s enduring significance in Nigerian politics.

Despite any past political differences, the Vice President insisted that unity should prevail. “We will not permit the relationship between him and the transformative governor to deteriorate,” he stated, assuring that he would take personal action to mend their relationship.

“I have a moral duty as a leader of the North to work on that relationship, to repair the damaged ties, because he possesses a generous spirit. He is our leader, and we hold him in the highest regard,” Shettima concluded.

What did Vice President Shettima urge the leaders of Benue State to do?

Vice President Shettima urged Senator George Akume and Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia to embrace peace and reconciliation, highlighting that ongoing discord could negatively impact Benue State and Nigeria as a whole.

What did Shettima say about the Tiv people?

Shettima praised the Tiv people as the largest non-Muslim ethnic group in Northern Nigeria, with communities across several states, and commended their political maturity during the 2023 elections.

What are the potential consequences of a rift between Akume and Alia?

Shettima warned that a breakdown in the relationship between Akume and Alia could lead to significant suffering for the people of Benue State, the North-Central region, and Nigeria as a whole.

Eze Chidiebere Paul

Eze Chidiebere Paul

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