A former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, has been selected as the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, consensus governorship candidate in Benue State for the 2027 elections.
Aondoakaa emerged in Makurdi after a consensus arrangement that saw 10 other aspirants step down and unanimously endorse his candidacy.
Party insiders disclosed that the agreement followed several weeks of consultations and strategic meetings among leaders and stakeholders.
Key figures who played roles in the process include former Benue governor, Samuel Ortom, and Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro.
Others involved are the PDP State Chairman, Ezekiel Adaji, members of the state executive committee, the PDP state assembly caucus, and influential blocs such as the G-14 and G-9.
The outcome was formally endorsed by all aspirants, who affirmed confidence in the process and pledged support for Mr Aondoakaa.
Although a former Commissioner for Education, Dennis Ityavyar, expressed concerns about zoning, he still backed the decision, noting it was necessary for party unity.
Similarly, Dominic Ucha, a former member of the Benue House of Assembly, congratulated Mr Aondoakaa and pledged to work towards victory in 2027.
Other aspirants also threw their weight behind the candidate, promising to contribute to the party’s success.
Ortom praised the aspirants for their maturity and loyalty, describing the consensus as a strong step toward repositioning the PDP for electoral victory. He urged continued unity and called for efforts to reclaim power in 2027.
He also advised Aondoakaa to ensure inclusiveness by accommodating other aspirants in his campaign structure.
Moro described the consensus as a tough but necessary move, stressing the need for effective leadership in the state. He appealed to party members and Benue residents to support the PDP’s agenda.
In his acceptance speech, Aondoakaa pledged to immediately begin reconciliation efforts within the party and unite its structures ahead of the polls.
He thanked party leaders and supporters for their confidence, assuring them of his readiness to deliver responsive leadership if elected governor in 2027.
Other aspirants in the race included Reverend Tor Uja, Tersoo Loko, Professor Sebastine Hon, SAN, Oyije Ogbenjua, retired Naval Commander Ode Ojowu, Tor-Tiv Ato, Simon Ater, and Bemgba Iortyom.
(NAN)
