Former Attorney General of the Federation, Michael Aondoakaa, has said his decision to leave the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is a personal move rooted in a sense of returning home, rather than any political rivalry or internal dynamics in Benue State.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Wednesday, Aondoakaa, who recently attended PDP convention and caucus meetings, explained that his defection followed careful reflection and wide consultations with his family, political associates, and supporters.
“My moving to PDP has nothing to do with His Excellency Governor Alia or Senator George Akume,” he said, distancing his decision from speculations linking his move to political calculations within the state. “It’s just like I’m going home to where I was elevated to the position of Attorney General and Minister of Justice, to pursue my personal dreams and ambition.”
His comments come amid claims that some political figures in Benue are repositioning within opposition ranks ahead of future elections, particularly in light of perceived advantages within the APC. However, Aondoakaa insisted his move is independent of such considerations.
Despite joining the PDP, he expressed continued confidence in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, crediting the administration’s economic reforms—particularly deregulation—for strengthening state revenues and creating opportunities for development at the subnational level.
Aondoakaa said his ambition is to leverage improved state resources to drive grassroots development in Benue, with a focus on rural communities. He outlined plans to prioritise food security, housing, and basic welfare, while aligning governance efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals targeted for 2030.
He also highlighted the need to address pressing security and economic challenges in the state, including the persistent herder-farmer crisis and the growing issue of illegal mining following the discovery of solid minerals. According to him, these challenges have led to the displacement of farmers and increased instability.
“My intention is to create an environment that will support the farmers,” he said, adding that enforcing existing laws—including anti-grazing regulations and provisions protecting lives and property—would be central to his approach.
On internal party matters, Aondoakaa dismissed claims of factional divisions within the PDP, maintaining that the party remains united under a leadership structure recognised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He added that ongoing reconciliation efforts are aimed at strengthening the party ahead of future elections.
He said, “Right now, PDP does not have a faction. Until the judgment of the Court of Appeal is set aside, there’s no other faction that is valid. The only valid PDP is the one that did a convention that was properly recognised by INEC. There’s no other judgment that has recognised another faction. And for now, PDP is trying their best to reconcile with all the aggrieved members, and that was the message at the convention, that all aggrieved members should unite and have a strong PDP that will canvass for all elections.”
Melissa Enoch
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