Chief Michael Aondoakaa, former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has promised to improve the security situation of Benue if elected governor.
Aondoakaa, who is the Peoples Democratic Party’s (PDP) consensus governorship candidate for 2027, stated this Tuesday in Makurdi when he obtained the party’s governorship expression of interest and nomination forms.
The former justice minister who spoke to newsmen shortly after picking up the forms expressed concern over the prevailing security.
He pledged to prioritise security of lives and property if elected and assured residents of decisive action.
He also said that he was aware of the challenges facing the state and his administration would address them head-on.
“I will protect the lives and property of the people of Benue. That is the primary responsibility of government. Everyone is aware of the situation in the state,” he said.
He expressed worry that insecurity had prevented farmers from returning to their farmlands and vowed to reverse the trend.
“Our farmers cannot return to their farms. I will not encourage the displacement of people into IDP camps. Instead, we will ensure they return safely to their ancestral homes to resume farming,” he added.
Aondoakaa emphasised the role of traditional rulers in fostering peace, noting that his administration would promote cultural ties and cooperation with neighbouring states such as Nasarawa State, Taraba State, and Cross River State to achieve lasting peace.
On youth employment, he pledged to revive the abandoned Mbatyav cement factory by attracting indigenous investors.
“We have a cement industry initiated during the administration of George Akume in Mbatyav. We will invite local investors to take over and develop the facility, creating jobs for our people,” he said.
He further assured that his administration would promote inclusiveness and unity across political and social divides in the state.
“There is too much division in our state today, to the extent that political differences affect personal relationships.
“A PDP government will not tolerate such division. People should be free to associate, worship, and express their views regardless of party affiliation,” Aondoakaa stated.
