The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress has raised an alarm over a plot by agents of the state government to organize a protest against President Bola Tinubu, Senate President Ahmad Lawan, and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Daniel Ihomun, the APC alleges that the protest aims to discredit the recent Senate resolution halting funds to local governments with undemocratic structures in Benue and other states.

According to Ihomun, the organizers’ first step was to demand the resignation of the Benue APC chairman, Austin Agada, without justification. He views this as an attempt to divide the party and weaken its national leadership.

“The protest is also alleged to be targeting the Senate President, Distinguish Sen Godswill Akpabio, who presided over the Senate plenary that passed the resolution and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. Dr George Akume, the Leader of APC in Benue, who has become a victim of malicious accusations in the State by mischief makers.

“This plot has been deeply hatched and their first experimental step was the call on the Party Chairman in the State, Comrade Austin Agada to resign without advancing any genuine reason.

“The party views this act of sabotage as portending grave danger to the unity of the state and the party, if people who claim APC membership and are working under an APC state government would undermine their President, the Senate President and the SGF in an open protest in their quest to stifle the hands of government on a matter of law.”

He added that, “Much as the organizers are free to express themselves, taking steps that would embarrass Mr. President and his administration is unacceptable and must be halted.”

Expressing concern about the potential for violence, the APC called on the Inspector General of Police and the Benue State Police Commissioner to monitor the protest closely. 

They urge Governor Hyacinth Alia to rein in “unscrupulous elements” within his administration who could plunge the state into chaos.

Furthermore, the party requested security agencies to be vigilant and prevent any unlawful activities.