By Peter Duru, Makurdi

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has settled for former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Chief Michael Aondoakaa (SAN) as its governorship candidate for the 2027 elections.

He emerged following a consensus agreement among aspirants and party leaders.

The party’s State Publicity Secretary, Bright Antyo, disclosed this in a statement on Sunday, noting that Aondoakaa emerged after a rigorous consultative process involving 11 aspirants.

According to Antyo, the exercise, which lasted over three weeks, saw the party leadership engage in “wide-ranging consultations and critical deliberations” before arriving at a decision acceptable to all stakeholders.

He said top party figures, including former Governor Samuel Ortom, Senate Minority Leader, Abba Moro, State Chairman, Ezekiel Adaji, members of the State Executive Committee, lawmakers, and influential elders’ blocs such as the G-14 and G-9, played key roles in the process.

“The decision was unanimously reached and duly endorsed by all aspirants, who have collectively resolved to work for the success of the party,” Antyo stated.

Some of the aspirants, while reacting to the outcome, acknowledged the sacrifices made in the interest of unity. Former Commissioner for Education, Prof. Dennis Ityavyar, admitted that the zoning arrangement did not favour his expectation but stressed that party cohesion was paramount.

“I accept the outcome in good faith and will give my full support to ensure victory for the PDP,” he said.

Mr. Dominic Ucha also expressed satisfaction with the process, congratulating Aondoakaa and pledging to mobilize support for the party ahead of the polls.

Other contenders, including Revd. Tor Uja, Dr. Tersoo Loko, Prof. Sebastine Hon (SAN), Dr. Oyije Ogbenjua, Rtd. Naval Commander Ode Ojowu, Engr. TorTiv Ato, Simon Ater, and Chief Bemgba Iortyom, similarly endorsed the consensus candidate.

Reacting to the development, former Governor Ortom commended the aspirants for demonstrating maturity and commitment to the party, urging them to sustain the unity required to reclaim power in 2027.

“This spirit of sacrifice and solidarity must be maintained if we are to succeed,” Ortom said, adding that the party’s focus should remain on delivering good governance to the people of Benue.

On his part, Senator Moro described the consensus arrangement as a tough but necessary step, noting that it reflected the party’s determination to present a strong and credible candidate.

“We have a duty to provide purposeful leadership, and this process is part of fulfilling that responsibility,” he stated.

In his acceptance remarks, Aondoakaa expressed appreciation to the party for the confidence reposed in him, promising to unite all factions and reposition the PDP for victory.
“I am deeply honoured by this mandate. I will work with all stakeholders to build a strong, united front that will deliver success in 2027,” he said.

He further assured that, if elected, his administration would prioritize the needs of the people and uphold the trust placed in him by the electorate.