Former Minister Michael Aondoakaa Parts Ways with APC

Michael Aondoakaa, ex-Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, has stepped down from his affiliation with the All Progressives Congress (APC). This decision is noted to have been made public via a personal statement he issued to the media in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, on Sunday.

Until his resignation, Aondoakaa was recognized as a prominent candidate for the governorship position under the APC in Benue State.

In his statement, he disclosed that his resignation would officially take effect as of March 28, citing a period of thoughtful deliberation and discussions with family, political allies, and his supporters as instrumental in this choice.

"While I remain grateful for the opportunity to serve and contribute to the growth of the party at various levels during my membership, prevailing circumstances have made it necessary for me to take this step in the overall interest of my people and democratic values," Aondoakaa expressed.

He also extended his heartfelt appreciation to President Bola Tinubu for his innovative leadership, which he believes has positively impacted the nation and thanked him for the support Benue has received under his administration.

Further commending Senator George Akume, he acknowledged the significant leadership qualities he has demonstrated within the APC in Benue, recognizing Akume's influence on the state's political arena.

Aondoakaa expressed sincere gratitude to the party leaders and members across Ushongo Local Government Area, as well as throughout Benue State, for their ongoing support over the years. He noted that the bonds formed and the experiences gained during his political journey have been invaluable.

Although he has not disclosed his future political plans, Aondoakaa urged his supporters to remain composed and steadfast, indicating that new objectives aimed at revitalizing Benue in the interest of its citizens will be communicated in the future.

His exit from the APC marks a significant moment in his political career as it comes just two months following his revalidation of party membership through an electronic registration process in Benue State. Aondoakaa has shown interest in contesting for the 2027 Benue State governorship after an unsuccessful attempt in 2022.

In the 2022 governorship primary election, he lost to Hyacinth Alia, the current Governor of Benue State, and challenged the results legally, although he was ultimately unsuccessful. Alia, a Catholic priest, subsequently won the governorship election held in 2023.

Prior to joining the APC in 2015, Aondoakaa was a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and had served as the Attorney General in the administration of the late President Umar Yar'Adua. When he left the PDP, he remarked that he was retiring from active party politics.