Forward the Names to Tinubu – Akume’s Aide Hits Back at Governor Alia Over Benue Insecurity Allegations
By IDNN Security & Governance Desk
Published: June 8, 2025
Terrence Kuanum, a top aide to Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume, has fired back at Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia, challenging him to submit names of politicians allegedly fueling insecurity in the state to President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Security Council.
Kuanum’s statement, released Saturday, came in response to Governor Alia’s bombshell allegations on Channels TV, where he accused unnamed politicians and sitting lawmakers of financing and sheltering armed groups responsible for violent attacks across Benue.
“If you have names, forward them officially. Stop manipulating public sentiment,” Kuanum declared.
Background: Governor Alia’s Explosive Accusations
In a televised interview on Friday, Governor Alia claimed that findings from a judicial panel of inquiry pointed to politicians in Abuja as sponsors of armed militias terrorizing the state.
“These people are keeping the killers in the bush, funding their operations, and supplying gadgets,” Alia alleged, promising to release the full report next week.
Akume’s Camp Responds: ‘Enough of Political Posturing’
Kuanum said the governor’s remarks were either the product of administrative ignorance or deliberate political provocation.
“The SGF’s role is strategic, not media-facing. That doesn’t mean he isn’t working behind the scenes,” Kuanum explained.
He also defended Benue’s National Assembly caucus, including Senators Titus Zam and Emmanuel Udende, for consistently pushing motions on the Benue security crisis.
White Paper First, Then Action
Kuanum reminded Alia that the judicial panel report must go through proper vetting and White Paper processes before it can be deemed actionable by the federal government.
“Since the governor has gone public prematurely, we urge him to also name names. The nation is watching,” the aide stated.
Political Friction: Alia vs Akume Power Tussle
The exchange has further deepened speculation of a power struggle between Alia and his political benefactor Akume.
Although both men were reconciled publicly by the Tiv Traditional Council in April 2024, insiders say tensions remain over control of Benue’s political machinery.
