The Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Gboko, Most Rev. William Avenya, has suspended the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, from exercising priestly functions.
The directive means the governor can no longer present himself publicly as a Catholic priest while holding political office. The announcement was made official by the diocese and has since circulated widely.
According to the Church, the action is in line with Canon Law. Catholic teachings prohibit ordained priests from taking part in active partisan politics or holding elective public office, in order to preserve the spiritual and pastoral nature of the priesthood.
Fr. Alia, who was ordained before venturing into politics, was elected governor of Benue State and has been serving in that capacity. The suspension does not affect his position as governor, but it bars him from performing sacraments and other clerical duties until further notice.
The decision has sparked conversations across the state and beyond, with many noting the long-standing tension between clerical vocation and political engagement. Church authorities say the measure reflects the Church’s commitment to upholding its canonical rules. #urbanradio945
Bishop Avenya Suspends Benue Governor Hyacinth Alia From Priestly Duties
