Famous Priest Joins Race To Become Edo Gov As Rev Alia Did In Benue, Reveals Plan

Rev Father Andrew Obinyan, the Priest of Saint Francis Catholic Church in Benin, has officially entered the 2024 Edo State governorship race, pledging a commitment to serve the people rather than seeking to be served.

In a statement to journalists at the press center of the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Father Obinyan explained his decision to join the governorship race, citing the calls and pressure from various groups as influential factors.

Father Obinyan, who did not disclose the political party under which he will be contesting, emphasized his readiness to respond to the needs of the people of Edo State.

He stated, “I received a series of calls from well-meaning Edo people and Nigerians across party lines beckoning me to contest the forthcoming governorship election in our state. After very extensive consultations and consideration, I am pleased to inform you that I am giving Edo people and members of the movement an affirmative nod. And that means I have considered it, and I am very much available and ready to serve. As a priest, I am trained and equipped to serve and not to be served.”

Jude Aigbona, the leader of the Rev. Fr. Obinyan Movement, endorsed Father Obinyan’s candidacy, urging Edo people to grant the priest an opportunity to govern the state. Aigbona emphasized Father Obinyan’s credibility as a tested and trusted servant.

Aigbona also called on major political parties to consider Father Obinyan for their gubernatorial ticket in the upcoming Edo 2024 governorship election. He assured that Edo State would witness a transformative era under Father Obinyan’s leadership.

This move follows a trend of Catholic priests venturing into politics, with the example of Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State winning the 2023 governorship election.