The governor of Benue state, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, on Thursday issued a stern warning to political aspirants who have been invoking his name during consultations in the run-up to the 2027 elections.
In a statement released by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor made it clear that he has not asked, encouraged, or mandated any individual to contest for political office.
He described the practice of dropping his name as “misleading, unauthorised, and a deliberate attempt to deceive the public for personal political gain.”
Governor Alia reminded members of his administration that he had directed them to resign on or before March 31, 2026 if they intended to pursue political ambitions.
“Those who are ready have already complied. Those who failed should not blame anyone,” he stressed.
He further emphasised that he has not endorsed or anointed any candidate for any position.
“As a product of the people’s choice myself, I am not the one to decide anyone’s electoral fate. The people are there to decide and make their choices. I am not making choices for anyone. If you want to contest elections, go out there and talk to your people, convince them to choose you. That is democracy,” he declared.
The governor cautioned aspirants against continuing to exploit his name, warning that such behaviour undermines credibility and public trust.
He reiterated his commitment to fairness, due process, and internal democracy, stressing that the people of Benue state will ultimately determine their leaders through lawful and transparent processes at the appropriate time.
