SGF Akume Actively Engaged in Tackling Insecurity — Office Counters Governor Alia’s Claims

The Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) has firmly rejected recent remarks made by Benue State Governor, Revd. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, alleging that Senator George Akume and his associates have remained silent on the worsening insecurity in the state.

Governor Alia, speaking during an appearance on Channels Television on Friday night, claimed that a report from a Panel of Inquiry he established links individuals “in Abuja” to the sponsorship of violent crimes in the Sankera axis of Benue State. He accused the SGF and his allies of maintaining silence on the matter.

However, a statement signed by Terrence Kuanum, Special Adviser on Public Affairs in the Office of the SGF, described the Governor’s remarks as misleading and unrepresentative of the true efforts being made behind the scenes.

“The SGF, Senator George Akume, has remained deeply engaged in ensuring that all forms of insecurity, not just in Benue but across Nigeria, are brought before the attention of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Executive Council for necessary and prompt action,” the statement read.

According to Kuanum, the SGF operates with discretion as required by his office and does not need media attention to prove his commitment. “Expecting the SGF to engage the media to showcase his efforts betrays either a misunderstanding of administrative protocols or a deliberate attempt to manipulate public opinion,” he added.

He reminded Governor Alia that as a member of the Federal Executive Council and National Security Council, he should be well aware of the official channels through which security interventions are made, many of which have benefited Benue State.

The statement further defended National Assembly members from Benue State, including Senators Titus Zam and Emmanuel Udende, asserting that they have consistently raised the issue of insecurity on the floors of both legislative chambers.

“Those the Governor refers to as ‘cronies’ of the SGF have been among the loudest voices in calling for action to address attacks, killings, and kidnappings in the state,” the SGF’s office emphasized.

On the controversial security report referenced by the Governor, the SGF’s office clarified that such documents must go through official vetting and gazetting into a White Paper before being recognized as valid government positions.

“Since His Excellency the Governor has made serious claims of complicity against individuals in Abuja, he owes it to the public and the security agencies to immediately forward the names of those implicated to the President and Federal Security Council,” the statement insisted.

The SGF also advised the Governor to adopt a more grassroots-oriented and inclusive approach to understanding and tackling the security crisis, noting that his current posture suggests a lack of clarity on the root causes of the violence.

Despite the disagreement, the statement assured that Senator Akume remains committed to supporting Governor Alia’s administration and the people of Benue in the collective fight against insecurity.

“It remains the prayer of the SGF that God Almighty grants His Excellency the Governor the grace, wisdom, and courage to lead Benue to peace and prosperity,” the statement concluded.