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A coalition of governorship aspirants from Vandeikya Local Government Area in Benue State has petitioned Catholic bishops across the state, raising serious concerns about what they describe as the misuse of church platforms for political intimidation and violent rhetoric allegedly involving Governor Hyacinth Alia.
In a letter dated February 27, 2026, addressed to the bishops of Gboko, Otukpo, Makurdi, and Katsina-Ala dioceses, the group urged the Church leaders to intervene and safeguard the sanctity and neutrality of church spaces. The petition was signed by several prominent political figures, academics, and professionals, including Hon. Joseph Waya, Prof. Paul Angyga, Prof. Denis Ityavyar, Prof. Terhemba Shija, Rt. Hon. Dominic Ucha, and surveyor Godwin Ityoachimin.
The petitioners specifically cited an incident on January 18, 2026, during a thanksgiving Mass at All Saints Catholic Church in Tsenge, Logo Local Government Area, organized in honor of Prof. Steve Ugba. They alleged that Governor Alia addressed worshippers from the altar area and made statements suggesting that “brute force” was sometimes necessary to achieve peace. They further claimed he urged supporters to “bite off the finger” of anyone threatening them and warned that anyone who slapped him should expect severe retaliation.
The coalition described these remarks delivered during a liturgical gathering close to the altar as inconsistent with Christian teachings and the sacred nature of worship. They argued that the increasing politicization of church services could erode the moral authority of the Church, create fear among congregants with differing political views, and pressure clergy to permit political speeches during worship especially given Governor Alia’s previous status as a Catholic priest before entering politics.
The group referenced another alleged incident on August 31, 2025, at St. George Catholic Church in Tyobo, where the governor was accused of issuing threats against the Ter Gboko and a former Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly.
The petitioners warned that continued use of sacred spaces for partisan messages and threats of violence was incompatible with Christian teachings. They urged the bishops to issue a pastoral letter reaffirming the neutrality and sanctity of church environments, clarifying that threats of violence contradict Gospel values, and providing guidelines empowering clergy to decline political speeches during worship.
They also recommended collaboration with the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) for a coordinated response. Copies of the petition were sent to the Apostolic Nunciature in Nigeria, the Archbishop of Abuja, and other Christian leaders in the state.
No official response has been received from the Benue State Government or the Catholic dioceses named in the petition at the time of this report. The development has sparked renewed debate about the intersection of politics, religion, and public discourse in Benue State.
