By Christiana Gokyo, Jos
A group of Benue indigenes residing in Plateau State has declared support for Mike Kaase Aondoakaa, SAN, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate and former Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The group expressed its support for Aondoakaa’s ambition to unseat Governor Hyacinth Alia during a courtesy visit to Mrs Jessica Aondoakaa, a former Deputy Chairman of Ushongo Local Government Area of Benue State and wife of the former Attorney-General, in Jos on Thursday.
Members of the Central Planning Committee (CPC) visited her to brief her on preparations for Aondoakaa’s proposed meeting with Benue indigenes living in Plateau State, scheduled for October 31, 2026.
The group said Aondoakaa’s experience in public service, leadership qualities and contributions to the development of Benue State and Nigeria positioned him to address the state’s challenges, particularly poverty and economic hardship.
Speaking during the visit, Douglas Achala, the Chief of the Igede people in Plateau State, expressed support for Aondoakaa, stating that the people of Benue needed a leader capable of addressing their economic difficulties and promoting unity among the state’s ethnic groups.
According to him, the shared interests of the various ethnic groups in Benue State made it necessary for them to support a leader committed to development and improved welfare.
Similarly, Mr Peter Amede, President of the Idoma people in Plateau State, acknowledged Aondoakaa’s record in public service and expressed optimism that his experience would help address the challenges facing Benue State if he became governor.
He called for unity among the people of Benue, stressing the need for a leader who would prioritise their welfare, tackle poverty and create opportunities for economic growth.
The CPC Chairman, Prof. Emmanuel Hemba, also praised Aondoakaa’s role in establishing a rice-processing industry at a time when demand for imported rice was high, describing the initiative as evidence of his commitment to economic development.
Hemba emphasised that the people of Benue were experiencing economic hardship and needed purposeful leadership capable of revitalising economic activities, strengthening local industries and creating opportunities for residents.
“Benue people are suffering and need someone who can take them out of poverty. We believe Aondoakaa has the experience and capacity to provide the leadership the state needs,” Hemba said.
In his remarks, the President of the Idoma people in Plateau State said the people expected a government that would recognise the contributions of different communities and ensure that development reached all parts of the state.
“We want leadership that will unite our people, promote development and address the challenges confronting Benue State,” he said.
He expressed confidence that Aondoakaa’s experience and public service record could help reposition the state, urging Benue indigenes to support efforts aimed at improving their welfare.
“We appreciate his antecedents and believe that, with the right leadership, Benue State can overcome poverty and move towards sustainable development,” he added.
Responding, Mrs Jessica Aondoakaa said her husband’s rise to prominence reflected God’s timing and purpose, noting that his background and educational experiences had helped shape his leadership capacity.
She explained that her husband’s relationships across Benue State’s political and cultural divides, including through his family, demonstrated his connections with different parts of the state and his understanding of their interests.
She further disclosed that she was prepared to serve as a link between the group and her husband, particularly by communicating the concerns of Benue indigenes living outside the state.
Mrs Aondoakaa identified accessibility, effective communication, active listening, consultation, interaction and willingness to receive advice as important qualities of leadership.
She expressed confidence that her husband possessed the attributes required to lead the state.
She also urged the group to agree on a convenient time for Aondoakaa’s proposed visit on October 31, 2026, stressing that the meeting should provide a platform for members to deliberate on and coordinate the necessary arrangements.