The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, played a crucial role in securing electoral victories for Muhammadu Buhari in 2015 and 2019, as well as Bola Ahmed Tinubu in 2023. His influence in the North-Central region reinforced the All Progressives Congress (APC) during critical electoral battles, ensuring the party’s control.
In 2011, the Sen. Dr. George Akume defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to APC disrupted PDP’s control in Benue and neighboring states. His grassroots mobilisation and alignment with traditional and community leaders helped Buhari gain traction in a region historically loyal to the opposition.
In 2015 with his support and mobilisations APC came out victorious in Benue state and also delivered President Mahamadu Buhari first term.
By 2019, the political landscape had shifted with Governor Samuel Ortom’s defection to PDP, posing a pure threat to APC’s hold on Benue. Despite this, the SGF’s political network countered PDP’s resurgence, maintaining Buhari’s electoral support in the state. His efforts kept APC structures intact and prevented the opposition from reclaiming dominance.
During the 2023 elections, the SGF, as Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, leveraged his position to consolidate support for Tinubu. Serving as APC’s National Vice Chairman (North-Central), he mobilized key stakeholders, countering opposition parties, particularly PDP and the Labour Party, which had strong influence in the region.
Concerns over Tinubu’s Muslim-Muslim ticket stirred resistance among Christian communities in the North-Central, but the SGF as usual played a critical role in addressing these tensions. As a prominent Christian leader, he engaged religious groups and assured them of Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance, mitigating opposition to the ticket.
On election day, the SGF’s political structure ensured strong voter turnout and prevented electoral manipulation. His coordinated strategy safeguarded APC’s votes, contributing to Tinubu’s victory despite strong opposition.
His appointment as SGF under Tinubu is a recognition of his strategic role in APC’s electoral successes. His political acumen and ability to navigate Nigeria’s complex electoral dynamics affirm his position as a key power broker within the ruling party.
