Former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Chief Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, has been selected as the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) consensus governorship candidate for Benue State ahead of the 2027 general elections. The decision came after a rigorous three-week political screening and consultation process involving party stakeholders, elders, and all 11 governorship aspirants under the PDP banner in the state. The process was designed to ensure unity and avoid internal conflicts that could weaken the party’s electoral chances. Party leaders emphasized that the outcome reflects a collective and disciplined effort to strengthen the PDP’s position in Benue.
The consensus-building exercise brought together prominent figures including former Governor Samuel Ortom, Senate Minority Leader Comrade Patrick Abba Moro, and the State Working Committee led by Rt. Hon. Ezekiel Adaji. Also present were lawmakers, influential party blocs such as the G-14 and G-9 elders’ groups, and other key political actors. These stakeholders engaged in extensive discussions aimed at identifying a candidate who could unite the party and lead effectively in the upcoming elections. The process was described as transparent and inclusive, with all participants given the opportunity to voice their views.
At the conclusion of the consultations, Chief Aondoakaa emerged as the unanimous choice. All 10 other aspirants accepted the decision, demonstrating a rare level of political maturity and party loyalty. Notable aspirants such as Prof. Dennis Ityavyar and Rt. Hon. Dominic Ucha, who had expressed concerns about zoning expectations, publicly pledged their support for the party’s decision. Other aspirants including Revd. Tor Uja, Prof. Sebastine Hon, SAN, Dr. Tersoo Loko, and Engr. Tor Tiv Ato also aligned with the consensus and committed to backing Aondoakaa’s campaign.
Former Governor Samuel Ortom commended the aspirants for their unity and maturity, urging them to remain focused on defeating the incumbent administration. Senator Patrick Abba Moro echoed this sentiment, calling the decision a difficult but necessary step to enhance the PDP’s electoral competitiveness. He stressed that internal harmony is crucial for success in a highly contested political environment like Benue State.
In his acceptance speech, Chief Aondoakaa expressed deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by the party. He pledged to consolidate unity within the PDP and mobilize all stakeholders into a “formidable force” for the 2027 elections. He emphasized his commitment to delivering the “mandate of the Benue people” and repositioning the party for victory. The PDP leadership stated that the consensus arrangement is intended to reduce internal divisions and improve the party’s chances of winning the governorship.
With the candidate selection complete, the PDP in Benue is now poised to shift focus to campaign preparations and grassroots mobilization. The party’s ability to maintain unity will be key in challenging the current administration and regaining political ground in the state.
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