By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has denied allegations that he plans to defect from the All Progressives Congress (APC) to the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of the 2027 general elections. The rumours surfaced following his recent courtesy visit to former PDP National Chairman, Dr. Iyorchia Ayu, at his Makurdi residence.In a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, the report was described as “fabricated, malicious, and aimed at distracting the governor from his duties.” The statement clarified that Governor Alia’s visit to Dr. Ayu was purely a normal engagement consistent with his inclusive leadership approach.“Our attention has been drawn to a false report alleging that His Excellency is preparing to defect from the APC after a supposed secret meeting with Sen. Iyorchia Ayu,” the statement read. “Such visits are routine and should not be misinterpreted. Governor Alia maintains an open-door policy and reserves the right to consult elder statesmen across Benue State.”
The statement further explained that Governor Alia has been actively reaching out to political leaders and respected figures in the state as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen the APC. Some of these engagements, the CPS noted, have resulted in new influential figures joining the party, including 3rd Republic Senator Prof. David Iormem, Elder David Iorwashima Amo, and Ambassador Terhemen Tarzoor.Kula reaffirmed the governor’s unwavering commitment to building a united and dominant APC structure in Benue ahead of the 2027 elections. According to him, Governor Alia is prepared to engage more political stakeholders and attract additional supporters into the party as part of a broader consolidation strategy for both his administration and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He urged members of the public to disregard the rumour, describing it as a deliberate attempt to sow confusion and undermine the governor’s growing influence within the APC. “This concocted story is a distraction intended to mislead the presidency and derail the governor’s progress. The public is advised to ignore it entirely,” Kula added.Governor Alia, who has consistently emphasized collaboration and inclusion in his governance model, maintains that his focus remains on delivering development across Benue State. The statement reiterated that he has no intention of defecting and remains firmly committed to the APC’s vision and objectives.
