A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State, Dominic Alancha, has urged the party to replace Governor Hyacinth Alia as its governorship candidate for the 2027 election, arguing that retaining him could jeopardise the party’s chances of victory.
Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Alancha said the perception that Alia enjoys overwhelming popularity as a Catholic priest-turned-politician does not reflect the political reality in the state.
He claimed the governor lacks the support of key religious leaders, alleging that “four bishops in the state are not on the same page with Alia.” According to Alancha, this demonstrates that the governor’s influence is not as broad as many believe.
Alancha also accused Alia of mismanaging the APC in Benue, saying the party’s internal divisions under his leadership could have serious electoral consequences in 2027.
“It’s not about Alia being popular or not. The truth of the matter is that Alia has managed the party in a very bad way. The outcome of it is what would be reflected in 2027 if Alia is given that ticket,” he said.
He urged the APC leadership to use its internal processes to nominate a candidate capable of uniting the party and strengthening its electoral prospects.