The meeting, held at the Government House in Makurdi, was convened following a directive from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at resolving the lingering leadership crisis within the party in the state.

However, differences soon arose over claims that an “automatic ticket” had been approved for elected APC officeholders, with both leaders giving contrasting interpretations of the discussions.

Addressing journalists after the meeting, Akume said the main objective was to restore unity and peace within the party.

He further stated that part of the agreement included granting automatic tickets to all elected APC officials, including the governor and members of the National and State Assemblies.

According to him, Governor Alia also expressed regret over the crisis that had affected the party.

Akume added that reconciliation and inclusiveness were key outcomes of the meeting, insisting that all elected party members would return under a united structure.

Governor Alia, however, disputed Akume’s claims, maintaining that no agreement was reached on automatic tickets.

He stressed that both President Tinubu and the APC national leadership had repeatedly clarified that such arrangements do not exist within the party’s rules.

The governor confirmed that he offered an apology during the meeting, describing it as a deliberate step toward reconciliation and unity among party members.

He explained that the gathering was aimed at rebuilding trust and restoring cooperation within the APC in Benue State.

Alia further clarified that the issue of automatic tickets was not part of any binding resolution, noting that Akume’s statement was more of an appeal than an official decision.

He reiterated that the party leadership at the national level has clearly ruled out automatic tickets, describing any such suggestion as inconsistent with APC guidelines.

The Benue APC crisis has persisted for years, fueled by a power struggle between Akume and Governor Alia, resulting in deep divisions and parallel party structures across various levels in the state.