By EMMANUEL ANTSWEN

Gov. Hyacinth Alia has expressed confidence that the lingering crisis within the Benue chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will soon be resolved.

Alia, who spoke on Saturday in Makurdi, said that there were indications that their differences would be resolved at a stakeholders’ meeting scheduled for Sunday.

The governor stated this while receiving his expression of interest and nomination forms, purchased and presented to him by the Benue Motorcycle Association (BEMOA) and the Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP).

He said the meeting was convened to promote unity among party members ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing the need for cohesion in the interest of the state.

According to him, key stakeholders expected at the meeting include the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume; members of the National Assembly; and other party leaders.

Alia reaffirmed that Benue remains an APC state and called for collective efforts to improve on the party’s performance in the 2023 elections.

“I wrote to the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, inviting him to the meeting. I also invited members of the Senate, the House of Representatives, and the Benue State House of Assembly.

“Despite initial scheduling challenges, we have agreed that by Sunday, all APC members and stakeholders will converge to plan and unite for the progress of the state.

“It is important for me, as a leader, to convene this meeting. What unites us is far greater than what divides us,” he said.

Alia expressed optimism that the meeting would bring together delegates from different factions to strengthen party unity.

He noted that leadership often requires difficult decisions and that it is not always possible to satisfy everyone.

Alia added that despite the challenges of governance, he remained focused and undeterred.

The governor also encouraged aspirants, particularly those seeking the governorship, to test their popularity and acceptability among the people.

Alia assured that his administration would continue to implement policies and projects that benefit the majority of Benue residents.

The governor thanked the unions for purchasing his nomination forms and pledged not to disappoint them.

Earlier, the Chairman, Nigerian Union of Pensioners in the state, Mr Michael Vembe, said members began contributing funds as far back as 2025 to support the governor’s re-election bid.

Vembe commended Alia for improving pensioners’ welfare through regular payment of pensions and gratuities and appealed for an upward review of pension benefits.

Similarly, Mr Terfa Aha of BEMOA said the association purchased the forms in recognition of the governor’s achievements, particularly in road construction.

He noted that Improved road infrastructure has enhanced the safety and efficiency of motorcycle operations, reducing wear and tear on their motorcycles. (NAN)

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