By Abdulrahman Aliagan, Abuja
The All Progressives Congress Initiative for Good Governance (APC-IGG) has strongly condemned the recent calls for the suspension of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator Dr. George Akume, describing the allegations against him as baseless, unfounded, and politically motivated.
In a statement signed by its National President, APC-IGG accused the cultural group behind the suspension call of attempting to mislead the public by wrongly linking Senator Akume to a corruption investigation currently being handled by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
According to the group, the case under EFCC investigation involves Mr. Torhile Uchi, a Senior Special Assistant to the President who is attached to the SGF’s office, not the SGF himself.
“The case under EFCC investigation does not directly implicate Sen. George Akume. There is no evidence or official indictment linking him to any wrongdoing. Due process must be allowed to take its course before drawing conclusions,” the statement emphasized.
In strongly defending the SGF, APC-IGG offered a detailed portrayal of Senator Akume’s distinguished public service record, calling him a statesman, strategist, and a champion of good governance.
Senator Dr. George Akume’s political career spans over four decades of dedicated service to Nigeria.
“A former Governor of Benue State, a three-term Senator of the Federal Republic, and a former Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs,
“Dr. Akume has consistently demonstrated visionary leadership, administrative expertise, and a firm belief in the power of governance as a tool for national transformation.”
The statement added that, SGF in the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, plays a pivotal role in the implementation of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“He has helped streamline governmental operations, strengthened inter-agency coordination, and championed transparency and inclusiveness in governance.
“His bridge-building qualities and deep understanding of Nigeria’s political landscape have made him an indispensable pillar in the APC-led federal government.
“Calling for Sen. Akume’s suspension without a shred of evidence is not only unjust but also a threat to the integrity of the administration. It is a calculated attempt to disrupt the machinery of government and distract from the real progress being made,” the group added.
The group noted that any attempt to suspend Akume on unproven grounds would not only be unfair but also detrimental to the progress of the Renewed Hope Agenda, which relies heavily on experienced technocrats like him to drive critical reforms.
Reaffirming its solidarity, APC-IGG declared that Senator Akume remains a vital force in the success of the current administration and a symbol of patriotism, credibility, and public trust.
“We urge the public and the media to reject any attempt to tarnish the image of a man who has dedicated his life to national development. The future of Nigeria depends on responsible leadership and the protection of reputations built on decades of committed service,” the statement concluded.