Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has emerged as the candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) after winning the party’s governorship primary ahead of the next election in the state.
The primary election, conducted under the supervision of party officials and electoral observers, saw Alia secure the party’s ticket following a vote by accredited delegates. His victory positions him to seek another term in office under the APC platform.
The exercise attracted party members, political stakeholders, and supporters from across Benue State, with security personnel deployed to maintain order during the process. Party leaders described the primary as peaceful and transparent, noting that it reflected the APC’s commitment to internal democracy.
Governor Alia, a former Catholic priest who became governor under the APC banner, thanked the delegates and party supporters for the confidence they had reposed in him. He pledged to continue implementing policies aimed at improving infrastructure, security, agriculture, healthcare, and education in the state.
Speaking after the announcement of the results, Alia said the outcome of the primary demonstrated unity within the party and renewed determination to consolidate on his administration’s achievements. He urged party members to remain united ahead of the general election, stressing that collective support would be crucial to securing a victory for the APC.
Party officials at the event commended the conduct of delegates and aspirants, urging those who contested against the governor to support the party’s candidate in the interest of unity and stability. They also expressed confidence that the APC would remain competitive in Benue politics.
The governorship primary comes amid heightened political activities across the country as parties prepare for upcoming elections. In Benue, attention is expected to shift to campaigns and possible alignments among opposition parties seeking to challenge the APC’s hold on power in the state.
Observers believe Alia’s emergence strengthens his influence within the APC structure in Benue, especially as he continues to consolidate support among party stakeholders and grassroots supporters. Political analysts also note that his administration’s handling of security and economic challenges will likely remain central issues in the campaign season.
With the APC primary concluded, other political parties are also expected to finalise their candidates in preparation for what is anticipated to be a closely watched governorship contest in Benue State.
