In what political analysts are describing as a significant realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections, prominent politicians from the Kwande Intermediate Area of Benue State have officially declared Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), as their supreme political leader.
The endorsement was made during a high-level solidarity visit to Akume’s residence in Abuja, where leaders from across major political parties — including the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Labour Party — united to declare their allegiance. They hailed Akume as “the finest political compass Tivland has ever produced,” pledging to follow his leadership to the ends of the earth.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Barrister Vincent Uji and Elder Atsaga Anemba commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Akume as SGF, describing the move as a “blessing to the Benue Valley.” They reaffirmed their unwavering support for both Tinubu and Akume, promising to align politically with the SGF going forward.
In a symbolic display of Tiv cultural honor, Akume was clothed in prestigious traditional attire and presented with a goatskin bag and warrior’s spear — items signifying trust, loyalty, and a readiness for political battle.
However, behind the cultural pageantry, serious political discussions unfolded. In a private meeting after the open endorsement, top elders from Kwande reportedly requested Akume’s backing for the zone to produce the next governor of Benue State in 2027.
According to sources privy to the talks, the elders argued that Kwande has consistently demonstrated loyalty and political capacity but has been historically sidelined in governorship selections. “You gave Sankera, MINDA, and Jechira a governor.
It is time to give Kwande its own,” one elder was quoted as saying, urging Akume to etch his name in history by addressing the long-standing imbalance.
In his response, Akume expressed deep appreciation for the honor and reiterated President Tinubu’s commitment to the development and security of Benue State.
He revealed that the President had approved enhanced deployment of security forces to troubled areas and had also greenlit the long-anticipated reconstruction of the Makurdi–Yandev–Katsina-Ala highway.
Akume added that Benue would not be left behind under Tinubu’s leadership, citing the recent humanitarian outreach by his wife in the state as a prelude to broader federal support.
Also speaking at the event, the Member representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency thanked Akume for the warm reception and remarked that the visit had rekindled hope for the people of the area.
As political momentum builds ahead of 2027, the events in Abuja may be a harbinger of shifting loyalties and power structures in Benue State — with Senator Akume once again positioned as a potential kingmaker.
