The return of democracy in 1999 brought renewed hope to the Tiv people, as their son, Senator Barnabas Gemade, was appointed National Chairman of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). At the same time, Benue State was led by a PDP governor—Dr. George Akume.
It was widely rumored that Gemade played a key role in Akume’s emergence as the PDP governorship candidate and his subsequent victory.
However, their political relationship barely lasted two years before Akume reportedly turned against Gemade. Not long after, Gemade was removed as PDP National Chairman and replaced by Audu Ogbeh.
These two illustrious sons of Benue are among the Tiv’s most valuable political assets, with strong national connections. Yet, the deepening rivalry between them has become a major concern—especially for us, the youths of Benue.
We believe that if they joined forces, there is no political goal they could not achieve. Sadly, what we continue to witness is mutual sabotage rather than collaboration.
In 2023, when governorship zoning returned to Jerchira, Akume—then the leader of the APC in Benue—openly declared that he would support the emergence of a candidate from the region and vowed not to interfere in the process, countering past accusations of manipulation.
But when it became clear that Senator Gemade was leading the race, Akume broke his vow. He not only changed the rules mid-game but imposed a candidate of his choice, leaving Gemade and his supporters disillusioned. Once again, Akume struck Gemade with what can only be described as an iron hand.
Barely two months into the new administration Akume helped install, he rushed to Abuja and began forming alliances to block Gemade’s attempt to replace Abdullahi Adamu as APC National Chairman.
Akume fought the bid to a standstill—and won. He was rewarded with the position of Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), while Gemade got nothing. Yet, throughout it all, Gemade has never shown public anger toward Akume, nor has he complained to anyone.
Shortly after, Akume appeared to distance himself from the very governor he helped bring to power. For reasons only he can explain, he allowed his allies to begin attacking the governor and his administration.
Seeing this as an act of betrayal, Gemade chose to support the governor in delivering democratic dividends to the people of Benue—a task they have undertaken with notable success and public admiration.
Now, another opportunity has arisen, as the North Central zone of the APC prepares to fill the party’s top leadership position.
Once again, Senator Gemade—a Tiv and Benue man, and arguably the most qualified for the post—is facing opposition from Akume, who is reportedly supporting a candidate from Plateau State.
This leaves us with one pressing question: What exactly did Gemade do to deserve such repeated opposition from Akume?
Would Akume truly be happier with someone from Plateau—perhaps a Matawalle—becoming APC National Chairman instead of his own Tiv brother? Why does he consistently orchestrate actions that undermine other Tiv leaders?
It’s high time Akume is reminded that he is not the only Tiv son blessed with national relevance. He cannot carry the weight of Benue alone on the national stage.
With the support of leaders like Gemade and others, we can be assured of greater inclusion in national politics and equitable distribution of opportunities.
The recently announced APA State is a case in point—why did he not also push for the inclusion of Katsina-Ala State?
Akume should be urged to remember the good deeds Gemade has done for him in the past and to retrace his steps—for the sake of Tiv unity and the future of Benue.
