The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has asserted that its claims of biased appointments made by Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume stem from grievances voiced by stakeholders in the North-Central region.
Chairman of the North-Central APC Forum, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, spoke out on Tuesday, countering claims from SGF spokesperson Terrence Kuanum, who labeled the Forum’s allegations as false and misleading.
Following a meeting in Abuja on Sunday, the North-Central APC Forum released a statement signed by Zazzaga, claiming that Akume has predominantly favored the Tiv community from Benue State in his appointments.
The Forum criticized the SGF, mentioning that his influence as SGF, designated to the North-Central by the APC, is not resonating within the region. They urged him to ensure inclusivity in his appointments and to act as a leader for all constituents in the North-Central.
Zazzaga cautioned that should the SGF not adopt a more inclusive leadership style, the group would resort to protests and agitation against him.In response, Kuanum’s statement characterized the North-Central APC Forum as troublemakers financially backed to undermine Akume and President Bola Tinubu. Kuanum defended the SGF, highlighting his efforts to attract numerous projects to the North-Central area and clarifying that he does not have the authority to make appointments on behalf of the President.Kuanum also pointed out that Zazzaga previously expressed satisfaction with Akume’s performance during the North-Central APC’s third quarter meeting in Jos in 2023.
Zazzaga reiterated the Forum’s concerns, stating their allegations are based on inputs from North-Central stakeholders.
He referenced a prior statement from the Zone A Peoples Assembly (ZAPA), a group of Benue indigenes, which criticized Akume for prioritizing appointments for his immediate Tiv community over wider representation, even mentioning that a relative of Akume was nominated as the Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Wannune.Zazzaga emphasized that the SGF’s leadership approach has shifted from the commendable performance noted in 2023 to one that now seemingly favors his own ethnic group.
He challenged the SGF’s defense, questioning who is responsible for the recommendations for federal appointments if he disclaims responsibility.
The Forum firmly stated that they are legitimate stakeholders advocating for fair representation in appointments and would resort to further evidence and protests if necessary, demanding either an adjustment in leadership style or Akume’s resignation or removal from office.
