The [Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)](https://www.inecnigeria.org/) released a roster of twelve governorship contenders for the 2027 Benue State election, but the name of the [Social Democratic Party (SDP)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Social_Democratic_Party_(Nigeria)) candidate, Prof. Sebastine Hon, SAN, and his running mate was missing, sparking uncertainty among supporters.
Why did the SDP’s nominee disappear from the list?
The omission was described by Hon as a clerical mistake. He assured party faithful that the commission would rectify the error and urged calm, stating, “I believe this is just a minor error. It will be corrected.”
Who are the other candidates on the INEC portal?
The list includes the incumbent governor of [Benue State](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Benue_State), Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, 60, of the All Progressives Congress (APC), running with deputy Dr. Sam Ode. Also featured are Nyibiam Kwaghshir (ADP) with Abu Adanu, Adagba Iorhen (APM) with Martha Alade, Herman Hembe (ADC) with John Abba, Engole Ujah (APP) with Gwanger Kavenen, Ochenehi Dominic (DLA) with Omeji Ochoechi, Mathias Byuan (LP) with Juliana Obetta, Prof. Terhemba Shija (NDC) with Raymond Edoh, Paul Wombo (NRM) with Pius Ogbu, Roseline Chenge (PRP) with Emmanuel Gwaza, Michael Aondoakaa (PDP) with Ogbenjuwa Oyije, and Simon Ogbe (ZLP) with Robert Gboko.
What is the party’s response?
SDP officials expressed disappointment but emphasized that the situation does not jeopardise their campaign. They are awaiting a formal correction from INEC before the finalisation of ballot papers.
When is the election scheduled?
The governorship poll is slated for 2027, with candidate lists expected to be finalised well before the voting date, allowing parties to campaign effectively.