The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has firmly denied widespread reports claiming he is in the race to become the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In a statement released on Thursday by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Yomi Odunuga, Akume described the claims as false, misleading, and a distraction from the critical national responsibilities entrusted to him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
No Ambition for APC National Chairmanship, Says Akume
Responding to a publication by Leadership Newspaper, which listed him among top politicians allegedly vying for the APC National Chairmanship, the SGF expressed concern over what he called a fabrication designed to stir political tension.
“To the best of our knowledge, this statement is nothing but a fabrication meant to distract the SGF from the key responsibilities that have been placed on him by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR),” the statement read.
Akume emphasized that he is not competing for any party position, including the APC National Chairmanship.
“His main focus, he insists, is to ensure that he does not in any way betray the intrinsic trust that President Tinubu reposes in him,” the statement continued. “He is committed to ensuring that the Renewed Hope Agenda of the ruling party and the government is achieved within the targeted time frame.”
Development Over Politics: Akume’s Priorities Clear
While acknowledging that there are capable politicians from the North-Central who can contest for the APC Chairmanship if zoned to the region, Akume made it clear that his focus remains on national development and delivering on the Tinubu administration’s agenda.
“I am not in a hurry to abdicate my responsibility and the task that the President has placed before me,” Akume said. “I can’t be in a race that I am not interested in.”
He added that every advancement in his political career has been through divine favour and support from people—including President Tinubu—rather than personal ambition.
“To say I am one of the prominent politicians gunning for the position of the APC Chairman is completely false. I am in the process of ensuring that the Renewed Hope Agenda is realised so Nigerians can enjoy the dividends of democracy.”
Call for Responsible Journalism in Political Reporting
The Office of the SGF also urged Nigerian media houses to exercise professionalism and strict adherence to ethical journalism, especially when reporting on politically sensitive issues.
“We appeal to media outlets to take seriously the ethics of journalism when reporting sensitive matters capable of heating the polity.”
The SGF’s office encouraged journalists to verify information before publication, noting that it remains open for clarification and verification at all times.
“The Office of the SGF is available to be contacted for fact-checking. Media practitioners are advised to make use of this channel to avoid the spread of misinformation.”
Conclusion
Senator George Akume has made it crystal clear: he is not in the race for APC National Chairmanship. Rather, his dedication lies in the implementation of the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at fast-tracking national development and restoring public confidence in governance.
This development underscores the importance of accurate reporting and responsible journalism in shaping political narratives and sustaining democracy in Nigeria.
