SDP: Gov Alia debunks defection rumors, reaffirms commitment to APC

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has dismissed speculations that he is planning to defect to the Social Democratic Party (SDP), reaffirming his loyalty to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor accused unnamed Abuja-based politicians of orchestrating a smear campaign against him.

“The persistently discontented politicians in Abuja, driven by their self-serving agendas, are once again attempting to create discord between Governor Alia and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” the statement read.

Governor Alia described the claims of his alleged defection alongside former Kaduna State Governor, Nasir El-Rufai, as baseless and lacking credible evidence. He also condemned the manipulation of old photographs to fuel the false narrative.

“Governor Alia is the leader of the APC in Benue State and has successfully revived the party, which was struggling before the 2019 elections. His performance in office has strengthened the APC and put opposition parties on the defensive,” Kula added.

The statement emphasized the governor’s commitment to President Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda and his efforts to align Benue State with the federal government, which has resulted in key appointments for Benue indigenes.

“We urge the people of Benue to disregard these baseless rumors. Governor Alia remains focused on his mandate to serve with transparency, loyalty, and unwavering determination,” the statement concluded.