Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has sent a strong message to All Progressives Congress (APC) aspirants. He declared that there will be no automatic tickets for anyone seeking to contest under the party’s platform. All aspirants must prepare to face open primaries.
Governor Alia made this position clear while addressing party members. He emphasized the need for transparency, fairness, and internal democracy within the APC in Benue State. His directive aims to strengthen the party and produce popular candidates for the 2027 elections.
Alia No Automatic Tickets Declaration
The Alia No Automatic Tickets stance has sparked reactions across Benue State. The governor warned that every aspirant, regardless of status or connection, must go through the primary process. He urged all interested persons to start mobilizing support and preparing adequately for the primaries.
Governor Alia stressed that the era of imposition is over. He believes open primaries will allow party members to choose credible candidates who enjoy genuine grassroots support. This approach, according to him, will reduce post-primary crises and improve the APC’s chances in the general elections.
The governor assured party faithful that the process will be free, fair, and transparent. He called on aspirants to focus on issue-based campaigns and avoid actions that could divide the party. His message promotes unity and healthy competition ahead of the polls.
Implications for Benue APC Ahead of 2027
This firm position by Governor Alia is expected to reshape political calculations in Benue State. Many aspirants who may have expected automatic tickets now know they must work harder to win the hearts of delegates and party members.
Political observers believe the governor’s decision will encourage more qualified individuals to join the race. It also sends a signal that loyalty alone may not be enough. Aspirants must demonstrate capacity, popularity, and commitment to the party’s ideals.
The Benue APC is currently working to strengthen its structures at ward and local government levels. The governor’s directive is part of broader efforts to reposition the party for better performance in future elections. Party leaders are expected to begin consultations and ward-level meetings soon.
Governor Alia remains focused on delivering good governance while preparing the party for electoral success. His insistence on primaries reflects confidence in the ability of party members to make the right choices.
Conclusion
Governor Hyacinth Alia has made his position very clear with the Alia No Automatic Tickets declaration. By directing all APC aspirants to prepare for open primaries, he is promoting fairness and internal democracy in Benue State. This approach could produce stronger candidates and a more united party as the state prepares for the 2027 general elections.
