Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State has dismissed speculations that he plans to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), affirming his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor attributed the rumors to unnamed politicians in Abuja who, he claimed, were attempting to create discord between him and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The statement refuted claims that Governor Alia was considering joining the SDP alongside former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, calling such reports baseless.
“These actions do not only wholly miss the mark; they also portray a significant lack of awareness regarding the substantial bond between the Governor and the President,” the statement read.
It also accused detractors of using an old, manipulated photograph to support the claims, emphasizing that official security records would confirm the details of any such meetings.
Governor Alia reaffirmed his leadership of the APC in Benue State, crediting his administration with reviving the party’s influence and securing key federal appointments for indigenes.
His government, he said, remains aligned with President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, which is driving various developmental projects across Benue State.
The statement urged the people of Benue to disregard the rumors, emphasizing that Governor Alia remains focused on delivering good governance with transparency and dedication.
It reiterated that attempts to undermine his leadership were futile and lacked credibility.