Alia stirs fresh defection rumours, hires opposition’s Labaran Maku; Benue APC loyalists fume

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has stirred political debate following his decision to appoint Labaran Maku, a former Minister of Information and a notable opposition member as media consultant for his administration’s second-year anniversary.

Maku, a former People’s Democratic Party (PDP) stalwart and known critic of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, has been a subject of speculation regarding Governor Alia’s political intentions, especially with rumors of a possible party defection in 2027.

The appointment has drawn mixed reactions from political observers and party members within the All Progressives Congress (APC), as it raises questions about Governor Alia’s commitment to party unity and discipline.

Some APC insiders expressed concern that engaging a prominent opposition figure could signal a shift away from the party’s collective agenda.

A senior APC source, speaking anonymously, described the move as “sending a strong message” and called for clarity on the governor’s political direction.

Local media professionals in Benue have also reacted to the decision, with several expressing disappointment that the governor opted to bring in an external consultant over experienced local media personnel.

Some see this as a missed opportunity to showcase homegrown talent and question the strategic rationale behind outsourcing such a critical communication task.

The governor’s existing media team, including his Chief Press Secretary and Special Adviser on Media and ICT, appears sidelined by this development, adding to internal tensions within the administration.

Concerns have also been raised regarding the use of public funds to engage a politically affiliated consultant, with advocates emphasizing the importance of transparency and public interest in such contracts.

Governor Alia is set to mark his second year in office soon, a milestone that now comes amid questions over party loyalty and potential realignment in the lead-up to the 2027 elections.