The suspended priest in the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, Hyacinth Alia, has won the governorship ticket of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue state.
Hettysmedia reported that Alia was relieved of his priestly duties temporarily on because the canon laws of the Catholic Church forbids the Church’s clerics from engaging in partisan politics.
The priest won after polling a total vote of over 7,000 votes at the primary election that was held on Friday.
He contested the party’s ticket with Barnabas Gemade, a former national chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and Mike Aondoakaa, a former attorney-general of the federation (AGF).
Fr Hyacinth Alia said he joined the governorship race to rescue Benue people from the “shackles of maladministration”.
“From the day I decided to answer the overwhelming calls of my people to contest the governorship of Benue to rescue our people from the shackles of maladministration, I was fully aware of the sacrifice I was going to make.”
Photos:
Reactions:
Rosemary Nwah @Niro Ekpo “He already knew the laws governing the church and as such, he wouldn’t criticize his suspension. The church only suspends him from “public” celebrations, not “private” celebrations; meaning he still remains a priest. So leave the church out of this, please.”
Ray Guerrero: False prophet
mmaculata Jacobs: “What a time to be alive. Congratulations“
Uwak-mfon Raphael: “I think I like the priest. He looks loved by the people and may do better for venue if elected”
Ukeme Isaac: “Benue people will vote massively for him… Also, there are many Catholics in Benue, and this will work massively in his favor.”
Tiku Ada: “Maybe that’s his destiny. Besides, it’s not a crime for christians to join politics. Politics is everywhere, even in the church.”
One enebelly; ”There is a precedent to this in Benue State. Father Adam (SDP) was governor of Benue in the Third Republic.”
One do2dtun; ”Na that Catholic Church him go first to relocate if he becomes Governor 😂.. power must change hands”
Related story:
Catholic Church Suspends Priest over Interest in Becoming Governor
Suspended Catholic Priest Priest Wins (APC) Governorship Ticket (photos)