A former Minister of Justice and Attorney-General of the Federation, Michael Kaase Aondoakaa, has been selected as the consensus governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State ahead of the 2027 elections.
The decision followed nearly three weeks of consultations and internal screening conducted by party leaders and stakeholders across the state. The process included all 11 aspirants who had initially shown interest in securing the party’s ticket.
Prominent party figures participated in the deliberations, including former governor Samuel Ortom, Senate Minority Leader Patrick Abba Moro, and members of the state working committee led by Ezekiel Adaji. Lawmakers, alongside influential party blocs such as the G-14 and G-9 elders, were also part of the process.
At the conclusion of the meetings, Aondoakaa emerged as the sole candidate, with the remaining 10 aspirants agreeing to step down in his favour. Party insiders indicated that the outcome was the result of extensive consultations aimed at preserving unity within the PDP.
Although some aspirants, including Dennis Ityavyar and Dominic Ucha, reportedly raised concerns over zoning, they ultimately accepted the decision and pledged support for the party.
Other contenders, such as Tor Uja, Sebastine Hon, Tersoo Loko, and Tor Tiv Ato, also backed the consensus arrangement and reaffirmed their loyalty moving forward.
Following the announcement, Ortom commended the aspirants for embracing the outcome and urged party members to remain united ahead of the elections. Moro similarly described the move as crucial to strengthening the PDP’s prospects in the state.
In his acceptance remarks, Aondoakaa pledged to unify party members and collaborate with all stakeholders in preparation for the 2027 governorship race. He expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and assured that efforts would be intensified to secure victory for the party.
Party leaders noted that the adoption of a consensus candidate was a strategic move to prevent internal disputes and present a united front ahead of the general elections.