The political landscape in Benue State has become increasingly contentious as a leadership crisis between Governor Hyacinth Alia and his political mentor, George Akume, intensifies. The recent All Progressives Congress (APC) ward congress on Wednesday has exacerbated existing divisions within the party, resulting in the emergence of two factions each claiming legitimacy over the newly formed ward executives. The dispute arises from the differing claims about the status of previous ward executives following the congress, signaling a broader power struggle within the state's political framework.

The Akume faction, led by Austin Agada, asserts that the recent congress did not mandate any new leadership, instead reinforcing the existing executives whom they believe are still legitimate. In contrast, the faction aligned with Governor Alia argues that the congress resulted in a necessary reevaluation and creation of new executives, as the terms of the former leaders had expired. This schism among the party ranks highlights the deep-seated loyalty issues and ideological divides that plague the APC in Benue, potentially impacting the party's coherence and future electoral prospects.

This situation is critical not only for party dynamics in Benue State but also for the broader APC's standing in Nigerian politics, especially as factions like these could have implications for governance and policy implementation at both state and national levels. The unfolding crisis underscores the challenges that political parties face regarding internal solidarity and the management of competing interests among leaders, which are crucial for maintaining political legitimacy and effectiveness in governance.