Escalation of Benue APC Crisis: Police Disperse Anti-Austin Agada Group with Tear Gas

Introduction

The ongoing internal strife within the Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has taken a tumultuous turn, as police fired tear gas at the anti-Austin Agada group. The incident unfolded during an attempt by the group to access the state secretariat of the APC in Makurdi. This article delves into the details of the unfolding crisis, examining the political dynamics and the security concerns that have led to this latest clash.

The Unraveling Intra-Party Conflict

As the Benue State chapter of the APC grapples with internal discord, the rift escalated when police intervention became necessary. The clash occurred when anti-Austin Agada supporters, believed to be aligned with the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, confronted the state's party chairman upon his attempt to access the party secretariat.

The Role of Governor Alia's Chief of Staff

Adding fuel to the fire, a letter surfaced, purportedly from the Chief of Staff to Governor Hyacinth Alia, instructing the Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina, to indefinitely ban all political activities in the state. The letter cited concerns about the security situation, particularly the escalating presence of armed herders.

The letter dated February 27, 2024, read, "I write to inform you that His Excellency Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alla has banned all political gatherings in any form, be it inter or intra-party or groups in Benue State until further notice."

Challenges Arising from Insecurity

The ban on political gatherings was justified in the letter by highlighting the heightened security risks in the state due to the surge in armed herders. The letter urged the police to enforce the directive promptly, emphasizing the urgency of curbing the volatility of the security atmosphere.

Police Intervention and Directive Against APC Meeting

In response to the directive, the police explicitly instructed the state chapter of the APC, led by the Agada group, not to proceed with its planned state executive committee meeting. This meeting involved key party officials, and the police aimed to prevent any potential clashes that could exacerbate the existing tensions within the party.

Defiance and Confrontation

Despite the police directive, the Agada group, perceived to be aligned with George Akume, chose to proceed with their scheduled meeting. This decision triggered a confrontational scenario as supporters of Governor Alia sought to impede their progress, blocking the route leading to the meeting venue.

Pandemonium at the Party Secretariat

The situation escalated when Austin Agada arrived at the APC party secretariat. Anti-Agada supporters confronted him, leading to chaos. In response, the police fired tear gas into the air and dispersed the crowd to restore order. The clashes underscore the deep-seated tensions within the Benue APC, further exacerbated by political allegiances and security concerns.

The Implications for APC in Benue

The protracted intra-party conflict in Benue State raises concerns about the cohesion and effectiveness of the APC in the region. The clash between different factions within the party not only reflects internal discord but also poses challenges to the party's ability to present a united front in addressing the state's political and security issues.


As the Benue APC grapples with internal strife, the recent clash between the police and the anti-Austin Agada group marks a critical juncture. Balancing political interests with security concerns becomes imperative for stakeholders in Nigeria.