APC Clears Gov. Alia for 2027 Benue Governorship Race

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has successfully passed the screening process conducted by the All Progressives Congress (APC), paving the way for him to participate in the party’s primaries ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

According to a statement issued by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the screening exercise took place on Friday at the Plateau State Governor’s Lodge, designated for the screening of incumbent governors seeking re-election under the APC platform.
The screening committee was chaired by the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who led the panel responsible for assessing aspirants seeking the party’s ticket for upcoming gubernatorial elections.
Governor Alia’s Expression of Interest and Nomination forms were purchased by the Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Benue State chapter, alongside the Benue State Motorcycle Association (BEMOA).
Leaders of the two groups cited the governor’s developmental strides, people-oriented leadership style, and improvements across the state as reasons for supporting his return to office for another term.
Political observers and stakeholders have described the governor’s certification as an important development that further strengthens his political standing within the APC amid growing consultations and alignments ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Alia, whose administration has focused on infrastructure development, improved security, civil service reforms, and social welfare programmes, was cleared after meeting all constitutional and party requirements outlined by the APC.
The development is also seen as an indication that political activities within the ruling party are beginning to intensify as preparations for the 2027 elections gradually gather momentum.
Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia was elected governor of Benue State in 2023 on the platform of the APC and has remained a prominent figure in the political landscape of the state since assuming office.