Nigerian Concord Newspaper
Below is the press statement by Senator Gabriel Suswam to react to a speech made by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume at Late Paul Unongo’s burial in Kwande last Saturday:
Death and burial are profound moments of reflection and remembrance for families, communities, and society. In Tiv culture, such occasions are held in the highest regard, embodying respect, solemnity, and dignity, free from insults, name-calling, or disruptive behaviors.
The burial of a revered figure like Wantaregh Paul Iyôrpuu Unongo should have been an occasion for unity, peace, and introspection. However, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, unfortunately turned this solemn event into a scene of controversy and disrespect.
Rather than honoring the late sage with a message of reconciliation and dignity, Senator Akume used the platform to attack prominent Tiv leaders. He disparaged them as “cheerleaders,” accusing them of undermining Tiv unity and distracting Governor Hyacinth Alia from his responsibilities. In a divisive and self-righteous tone, he singled out Senators Gabriel Suswam, Barnabas Gemade, Joseph Akaagerger, and Barr. Emmanuel Jime, advising Governor Alia to distance himself from them and align exclusively with him for the supposed betterment of Benue State.
It seems Senator George Akume has conveniently forgotten the events that unfolded under his tenure as governor of Benue State. It was during his watch that Wantaregh Paul Iyôrpuu Unongo endured the public humiliation of having his parents’ tomb desecrated. Akume himself had intense conflicts with Barnabas Gemade and bitter disagreements with Governors Gabriel Suswam and Samuel Ortom. In those instances, who were the “cheerleaders” urging him on? Who encouraged him to clash with Senators Saror, Ayu, Waku, Col. Aboho, Ambassador Gbasha, and others?
Senator Akume’s bitter relationship with every emerging leader in Benue is quickly becoming a defining characteristic of his political career. It is naive and childish of him to assume that anyone or any group must be “cheerleading” Governor Hyacinth Alia for them to have a confrontation—a pattern that has consistently marked his political life.
One cannot help but question whether Akume’s behavior at the burial was influenced by alcohol or been tormented by gods, given his incoherent remarks and clownish antics during his 16-minute speech. How could he, in good conscience, reduce Senator Gabriel Suswam—a distinguished leader—to the label of a mere “cheerleader” and accuse him of being an enemy of Benue or Governor Alia? The audacity is staggering.
It is deeply ironic that Akume called for prayers and reconciliation with Governor Alia while simultaneously blaming Senator Suswam for alleged divisions. Like Akume, Suswam served as Governor of Benue for eight years, navigating the state through its challenges. Since 1999, Benue has suffered from a lack of genuine political leadership—leaders who uplift the people—remaining trapped under figures whose divisive actions only deepen the state’s stagnation.
By misinterpreting the significance of Unongo’s funeral, Akume has sown unnecessary divisions, provoked unprovoked, and tarnished the reputations of accomplished Tiv sons. He squandered a key opportunity to promote the government he serves, his party (the APC), or any positive agenda for Benue. Instead, he descended into petty mudslinging, leading many to wonder if he came to celebrate the downfall of a perceived rival. Perhaps his actions reflect frustration over Governor Alia’s refusal to allow him to control over the state’s resources.
What drives George Akume to attack Gabriel Suswam so viciously? Is it envy, personal vendetta, or something else? His actions are revealing to the people of Benue, showing them who the true enemy is.
While Akume owes Senator Suswam a public apology, it is important to recognize that Suswam endured Akume’s persistent interference during his time as Governor (2007–2015) without retaliation. Suswam has consistently shown respect for Akume, even in the face of provocations.
Akume’s unprovoked outburst at Unongo’s funeral wasn’t merely an attempt to stir trouble where none existed; it was a disgraceful mockery of the memory of a great Tiv leader, who, even on his sickbed, had given his blessings to George Akume without reservation.
It is impossible to ignore Akume’s history of disrespect in Kwande during his time as governor. The very Unongo he now praises was dishonored by Akume’s behavior at his funeral—actions completely lacking in sobriety and respect. Akume squandered the opportunity to unite with the Tiv elite and instead left a lasting stain on the occasion.
The time has come to speak openly about what many have only whispered: George Akume is the true enemy of Tiv unity.
Governor Alia must recognize that Akume is a loner and an outcast, and his intentions should be treated with caution. Akume’s insistence that Alia return to his fold raises serious questions. Did Alia distance himself from Akume? Why? And is Gabriel Suswam truly responsible for the rift?
Akume’s conduct at Unongo’s funeral has left a stain that will take significant effort to cleanse. His actions on the grave of Wantaregh Unongo are a deep affront to Tivland—one of the most shameful episodes in recent memory.
Bede Bartholomew
Media Aide to HE. Sen. Gabriel Suswam
02-12-2024