By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) governorship candidate in Benue State, and former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Michael Aondoakaa, SAN, has promised to run an inclusive administration that will actively engage young people in the development of the state if elected governor in the forthcoming election.

Aondoakaa made the pledge in Makurdi after purchasing his Nomination and Expression of Interest Forms, describing his ambition as a mission to unite the people and drive industrial transformation across the state.

Speaking amid a large crowd of supporters, the former Attorney-General of the Federation said his administration would prioritize the protection of lives and property, which he described as the core responsibility of government.

“The protection of lives and property is the primary responsibility of any government. We will ensure that this is taken seriously under my leadership,” he said.

He further vowed to address the long-standing challenge of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), stressing that displacement camps would become a thing of the past under his administration.

“We are going to work towards ensuring that the issue of IDPs becomes history. There will no longer be camps scattered across the state,” Aondoakaa added.

On economic development, the PDP candidate pledged to open up Benue State to indigenous investors, with particular focus on reviving and repositioning the state-owned cement factory located in Mbatiav, Gboko Local Government Area.

According to him, strategic partnerships with local investors would help unlock the state’s industrial potential and create jobs for the teeming youth population.

Aondoakaa also emphasized the importance of strengthening traditional institutions, noting that they remain key partners in peacebuilding and cultural integration within and beyond the state.

He said his administration would encourage stronger interstate cultural relationships with neighbouring states including Nasarawa, Taraba, and Cross River.

Reiterating his commitment to unity and tolerance, he decried growing political divisions in the state. “There is so much division in our state to the extent that if you are in another party, you cannot even greet your own brother. The PDP government will not tolerate that,” he said.

“You can belong to any political party, but under our government, we will respect your views and guarantee freedom of expression, worship, and movement,” he added.

Aondoakaa assured that his campaign is anchored on inclusion, development, and reconciliation, promising to build a Benue state where all citizens can thrive regardless of political or social affiliation.