Three major socio-cultural groups in Benue State, Mdzough U Tiv, Ochetoha K’Idoma, and Ominy’Igede, have condemned calls allegedly by Afenifere and the Arewa Patriots for the suspension of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, over an N80bn fraud case involving on of his aides.
They argued that Akume should step aside to allow for a full, free, and thorough investigation into the allegations, which they claim were carried out under his office’s supervision.
“A crime of N80bn in public funds, uncovered by the EFCC, cannot be brushed aside. We demand accountability,” Afenifere reportedly said.
But in a joint statement released Tuesday night in Makurdi, the three Benue-based socio-cultural organisations, led by Iorbee Ihagh—a retired Comptroller of Prisons—described the calls for Akume’s suspension as politically motivated and lacking in objectivity.
Ihagh noted that Akume, as a seasoned administrator with extensive civil service experience, understands due process and had not interfered with the EFCC’s ongoing investigation.
“At the onset, the SGF gave his full approval for security agencies to investigate his aide. Therefore, the calls for his suspension are not only premature but suggest a hidden political agenda rather than a genuine quest for transparency,” the statement read.
The groups questioned the legitimacy of the Afenifere faction making the demands, asserting that there is no recognised splinter group within the organisation.
“We believe this so-called factional Afenifere has been sponsored to act out a predetermined script. We also observe that some Arewa groups have increasingly attempted to undermine President Bola Tinubu and his administration. The Arewa Patriots appear to be following this troubling pattern,” the statement added.
They expressed dismay at the apparent regional divide the issue has exposed.
“Until now, we believed the people of the Middle Belt were an integral part of Arewa. But this development makes it clear that some groups see us differently. It suggests they consider us outsiders to the Northern agenda.”
The Benue groups also decried what they saw as double standards, pointing out that many northerners accused of financial misconduct had not faced similar calls for suspension or resignation.
“In Akume’s case, there has been no allegation of personal embezzlement, yet he is being asked to step down. This is in stark contrast to the former Minister, Beta Edu, whose suspension followed direct allegations against her. The comparison simply doesn’t hold,” they argued.
