Nigerian Concord Newspaper
A leading governorship aspirant on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the 2027 general election in Benue State, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has pledged all-inclusive engagement with stakeholders to address the numerous challenges facing the state, if elected governor.
Chief Aondoakaa stated this on Monday during separate meetings with PDP stakeholders from Sankera, Jemgbagh, Gwer, and Lobi, where he sought their support ahead of the 2027 elections.
While addressing the stakeholders, the former Attorney General and Minister of Justice lamented the current state of Benue, which was once renowned as an agricultural hub. He noted that persistent insecurity occasioned by terrorism have forced many farmers to abandon their farmlands, leading to hardship and hunger in the state.
He assured the stakeholders that, if voted as governor, his administration would prioritize the security of lives and property. He emphasized the need to collaborate with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and political leaders across party lines to restore peace across the state.
Chief Aondoakaa stressed that a secured Benue State would enable the people to return to farming and drive economic growth without overdependence on government support.
He also berated the current administration in the state for failing to meet the basic needs of the people. Chief Aondoakaa urged stakeholders from Sankera, Jemgbagh, Gwer, and Lobi to place competence above all other considerations and support his ambition, promising to deliver peace, stability, and meaningful development.
In their responses, stakeholders from the various regions expressed strong support for Chief Aondoakaa, describing him as a capable and experienced leader.
Speaking on behalf of Sankera stakeholders, Prof. Tersoo Kpelai, former Nigerian Ambassador to Argentina; Ambassador Chieve, National Zonal Chairman of PDP in North Central; Dr. James Anbua; and Benue PDP Zonal Chairman (Zone A), Hon. Abraham Waroh, all commended Aondoakaa’s bold decision to contest and urged him to consult widely to realize his aspiration.
On their part, PDP stakeholders from Jemgbagh, including the Leader of G14, Elder Laha Dzever; Hon. Ortese Gbegi; Hon. Tavershima Stephen; and former acting state chairman of the PDP in Benue, Isaac Mfo, commended Chief Aondoakaa for stating his vision and mission explicitly in his bid to salvage the worsening situation in the state. They expressed confidence in his ability to make the state proud.
Stakeholders from Gwer, led by Barr. Michael Gusa and other party officials, including former PDP State Youth Leader, Hon. Patrick Modom; PDP Chairman for Gwer East LGA, Hon. Ukiyima Nyiyongo; PDP Chairman for Gwer West, Hon. Tersoo Dwem; H.K. Watsav; Hon. Mrs. Rhoda Awuna (Women Leader); and Hon. Terver Jirgba (Youth Leader), also expressed confidence in Aondoakaa’s leadership capacity and pledged their support.
In the same vein, stakeholders from Makurdi and Guma, including Hon. Charles Torbunde; Hon. Mike Adyo; Elder Peter Igba; Hon. Nicholas Abashua; Mrs. Vivian Unenge; Elder Avine Agbom; and Senator Fred Orti, all expressed confidence in the ability of Aondoakaa to perform well, if elected as governor. They praised his strong working relationship with former Governor Samuel Ortom and assured him of their blessings.